Training future antimicrobial stewards in the ESCMID AMS certificate training programme: from knowledge to action

The ESCMID launched a 2-year Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Certificate programme to strengthen expertise among healthcare professionals. This evaluation of the first cohort (40 participants from 22 countries, starting June 2022) assessed learning outcomes and project impact using Kirkpatrick’s model.

• Reaction (Level 1): Courses were well received.

• Learning (Level 2): All participants passed the final exam.

• Behaviour (Level 3): 88% submitted local AMS project reports.

• Results (Level 4): Of 31 projects with post-intervention measurements, 84% showed improvements in process (e.g. guideline adherence), quantity (e.g. reduced broad-spectrum antibiotic use), or patient outcomes (e.g. shorter hospital stay).

Conclusion: The programme successfully enhanced AMS knowledge and skills, and led to tangible improvements in local antimicrobial use and patient care.