Understanding the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship in Utah community pharmacies

Abstract

Objectives: Antimicrobial stewardship (AS) is essential to optimize antibiotic use and combat resistance. This study evaluated the implementation of AS activities in community pharmacies across Utah and assessed pharmacists’ understanding of AS principles, current practices and barriers. This study also aimed to increase community pharmacists’ awareness of preventing drug-resistant infections. Addressing community pharmacies AS barriers can significantly enhance AS efforts, to ensure optimal patient outcomes while combating antibiotic resistance. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to community pharmacies throughout Utah. The survey collected data on pharmacy demographics, AS knowledge, implementation practices, perceived barriers and potential facilitators related to AS. Results: Out of 110 respondents, 50% worked in privately owned pharmacies, and 78.7% held a Doctorate in Pharmacy. While 71.6% were familiar with ASP, 28.4% were not. Major barriers to implementing AS in community pharmacies included limited access to patient data (79.8%) and the absence of standardized AS guidelines (53%). Pharmacists identified several key facilitators that could support AS implementation, which included access to guidelines (75.2%) and better collaboration with providers (75.2%). Additionally, (86.4%) of pharmacists highlighted improved access to patient records was essential or effective for AS implementation. However, only (47.7%) of pharmacists consistently intervened when an antibiotic dosage or frequency appeared inappropriate, which indicates potential gaps in AS-related interventions. Conclusions: Enhancing pharmacists’ access to clinical data and fostering collaboration with healthcare providers are crucial steps towards effective AS implementation in community settings.