World Antimicrobial Awareness Week

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week

“EZ Tips to Fight Back Against Antimicrobial Resistance: Antimicrobial Awareness Week” 

 

What is antimicrobial resistance?  

According to the World Health Organization, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time so that they no longer respond to medicines. This effect is largely due to the overuse of antibiotics. 

AMR is a global concern because it has been found in all regions of the world. Antimicrobial resistance threatens our ability to treat infections; not only will this effect healthcare, it will also cause damage to food production and eventually, life expectancy.  

What is antimicrobial resistance?  

According to the World Health Organization, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time so that they no longer respond to medicines. This effect is largely due to the overuse of antibiotics. 

AMR is a global concern because it has been found in all regions of the world. Antimicrobial resistance threatens our ability to treat infections; not only will this effect healthcare, it will also cause damage to food production and eventually, life expectancy.  

 

What can nurses do to combat antibiotic resistant bacteria?  

When patients come to healthcare facilities to receive care, there is a possibility that they may get infections while receiving care. These incidents are called healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Every healthcare facility has infection prevention and control guidelines that outline strategies for nurses and other healthcare professionals to combat antimicrobial resistance.  

The first, and easiest way, is to use proper hand hygiene. This one isn’t reserved just for healthcare workers either. By diligently cleaning one’s hands, we all can prevent the spread of microorganisms (including those that are resistant to antibiotics). That’s right, 20 thorough seconds of handwashing can save thousands of lives.   

Another simple way healthcare providers reduce the spread of AMR germs is by asking patients if they have recently received care at another facility or if they have recently traveled out of the country. Physicians, clinicians and nurses stay informed about outbreaks and need as much information as they can to stop the spread of infections. 

And finally, nurses are trained to educate patients on infection prevention strategies that can be used in day-to-day life.  

 
What can clinicians do to combat antimicrobial resistance? 

Aside from following the infection prevention guidelines at their healthcare facility, clinicians implement distinct prescription practices to ensure antibiotics are prescribed and dispensed correctly.  

 

What can the average person do to combat antimicrobial resistance? 

  • Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor 
  • Use antibiotics as prescribed  
  • Never share or use leftover antibiotics. 
  • Maintain proper hand hygiene 
  • Prepare food hygienically 
  • Avoid close contact with sick people 
  • Practice safer sex 

 

When is World Antimicrobial Awareness Week this year? 

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week will be celebrated from November 18 –24, 2022. 

 

#AntimicrobialAwarenessWeek, #WorldAntimicrobialAwarenessWeek, #WAAW, #USAAW22, #AMR, #AntimicrobialResistance, #BeAntibioticsAware,