Chapter 8. Infectious Diseases
Synopsis
Author
Mr. Arun Pachauri
Pharm.D intern, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Parul Institute of Pharmacy, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
Abstract
Antimicrobial stewardship programs optimize infection treatment through systematic approaches to agent selection, dosing, and duration. Empiric therapy protocols incorporate local resistance patterns, infection severity, and patient risk factors for resistant organisms. Treatment modification strategies utilize clinical response indicators, microbiological data, and therapeutic drug monitoring to optimize outcomes. Resistance management programs implement interventions at individual and population levels through restricted formularies, rotation protocols, and combination therapy approaches. Prevention strategies incorporate vaccination programs, infection control measures, and prophylactic protocols for high-risk populations. Systematic monitoring systems track antimicrobial utilization patterns, resistance trends, and clinical outcomes through standardized metrics. Implementation of stewardship initiatives requires coordinated multidisciplinary approaches incorporating clinical, microbiological, and pharmacological expertise
Keywords: Antimicrobial stewardship, Resistance management, Empiric therapy, Treatment optimization, Prevention strategies
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