Results of a 5 year Antimicrobial Stewardship program in a North Italian Hospital

Abstract Issue A National Action Plan (PNCAR) to fight antimicrobial resistance has been launched in Italy in 2017, further revised in 2022. In order to reduce inappropriate exposure to antibiotics and infections from multidrug resistant bacteria, a structured system of surveillance and monitoring according to PNCAR standards has been set up in all Italian regions. In the Hospital of Cittadella (District of Padua, Veneto region), special focus has been given to the reduction of antibiotic consumption, in particular quinolones, third generation cephalosporins, carbapenems and macrolides. Description Multidisciplinary meetings have been monthly organized by the hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship Group, with the aim of coordinating the implementation of specific stewardship actions. A quantitative estimate of antibiotic consumption (defined daily dose - DDD - consumption per 100 days of hospitalization) has been provided by the Regional data warehouse from 2019 to 2023 regarding all classes of antibiotics. Results Between 2019 and 2023 a clear decrease in the consumption of quinolones (from 8 to 5,8 DDD, -28%) and carbapenems (from 2,5 to 1,3 DDD, -48%) was observed but, at the same time, an increase in the consumption of third generation cephalosporins (from 9 to 15,7 DDD, +74%) has been reported. This can be explained as a direct consequence of the correct application of therapy guidelines, which in several cases suggest the use of ceftriaxone instead of meropenem. Finally, after an increase in the consumption of macrolides during the first COVID-19 pandemic wave, the consumption of this class of antibiotics has returned to pre-pandemic level. Lessons Constant monitoring of antimicrobial consumption and the identification of warning situations that may need to implement specific actions are the cornerstone of Antimicrobial Stewardship programs. Targets must be defined analyzing data of bacterial resistance rates and infections from multidrug resistant bacteria. Key messages • In Antimicrobial Stewardship programs it is important to adopt constant monitoring of antimicrobial consumption. • Antimicrobial stewardship programs need to be adapted according to the characteristics of each hospital.