Scientific Poster Session IV: Late-Breaking Original Research

Late Breaking Original Research
  Tuesday, November 14, 2023
  08:30 AM–10:00 AM

Abstract

Introduction: Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) aims to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is predicted to cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050 (1). The COVID-19 pandemic intensified AMR concerns, attributing to 6 million deaths by 2023. The IVOS, a pivotal AMS strategy, ensures judicious antimicrobial use and combats AMR (2). This research evaluated IVOS practice during 2019 and 2020, aligning with the pandemic. Research Question or Hypothesis: How was IVOS, a core AMS strategy, practised in 2019 and 2020? Study Design: A retrospective study analysed IVOS in adults at an NHS Foundation Trust in England, a 742-bed facility serving 400,000 people. The research received ethical approval from the UK's Health Research Authority and the University of Hertfordshire. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 640 patient records from 2019 and 2020, focusing on those 25 or older, including immunocompromised, pregnant individuals, and those prescribed antibiotics for respiratory infections. The analysis was conducted at eight intervals, sampling 80 patients each time. Results: Out of 534 IV antimicrobial courses, IVOS was found in 171. Antibiotics such as, Amoxicillin 500mg IV were switched to equivalent oral dosages (Table 1). Some switches had varied dosages, such as Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid 1.2g IV to its oral counterpart, Amoxicillin 500mg with Clavulanic acid 125mg. 171 out of 640 patients (26.7%) experienced IVOS, with Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid switched most frequently (Figure 1). Conclusion: This study assessed IVOS during 2019-2020 during the pandemic in an NHS Trust. 26.7% of patients experienced IVOS, emphasising its significance in enhancing AMS implementation and addressing AMR during these challenging periods.

Presenting Author

Rasha Abdelsalam Elshenawey PhD at University of Hertfordshire, UK
FADIC

Authors

Zoe Aslanpour Consultant in Public Health
Department of Clinical and Pharmaceutical Sciences | School of Life and Medical Sciences | University of Hertfordshire

Nkiruka Umaru PhD Supervisor
Hertfordshire University