2046. A Qualitative Study on Perceived Barriers and Facilitators of Implementing an Antimicrobial Stewardship Intervention in the Management of Urinary Tract Infections in a Long-Term Care Setting

Abstract

Background. 50% of antibiotic courses in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are unnecessary, leading to increased risk of harm such as Clostridiodes difficile infection and antibiotic-resistant organisms. Antimicrobial stewardship (AS) interventions play an important role in optimizing antibiotic use. Most studies addressing strategies to improve antibiotic prescribing in LTCFs showed modest and unsustained results. We aimed to identify facilitators, barriers and strategies in implementing a urinary tract infection (UTI)-focused AS intervention at an LTCF in Toronto. Methods. A qualitative approach using conventional content analysis was used. Through purposeful sampling, we recruited different LTCF healthcare providers and administrators at Kensington Gardens. Interviewees attended focus groups or one-on-one interviews. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide. Data were analyzed inductively using a codebook modified in an iterative analytic process. Barriers and facilitators with potential strategies were summarized and mapped using the COM-B (capability, opportunity, motivation and behavior) model (Mitchie et al.) and emerging themes identified. Results. Sixteen participants were interviewed. The most common barriers were family pressure, lack of access and test result delay while the barrier themes were lack of access, inadequate communication, lack of time and lack of knowledge of both HCPs and resident's families. These can be addressed by the most common facilitators and facilitator themes, which included good communication between healthcare professionals (HCPs), education for HCPs and families and collaboration between HCPs. Most barriers and facilitators were mapped to the opportunities domain of the COM-B model. Conclusion. Strategies for improved UTI-focused antimicrobial stewardship intervention in LTC setting should focus on increasing opportunities and innovative formats for education, communication and collaboration among HCPs and with families although barriers and facilitators in all aspects of the COM-B model were identified (Figure Presented).