Implementing an antimicrobial stewardship program in out-patient dialysis units

Purpose of reviewRates of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO), including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, and multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria, continue to rise among the population of chronic hemodialysis. Antimicrobial exposure is the main risk factor for MDRO emergence and dissemination. Up to 30% of antimicrobial doses administered in out-patient dialysis units may not be indicated. Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) improve antimicrobial prescribing patterns. The purpose of this review is to highlight the key elements and interventions of ASP.Recent findingsThe Infectious Disease Society of America and the Society of Healthcare Epidemiology of America have provided evidence-based guidelines for the development and implementation of an ASP. Many of their recommendations can be adapted to the out-patient dialysis setting.SummaryDeveloping and implementing an ASP by following key elements and interventions in the out-patient dialysis setting can lead to reduced mortality, adverse events, costs, and improvement in antimicrobial susceptibility rates.