The Role of Nursing, Public Health, and Pharmacy in Combating Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) poses a significant public health threat, necessitating a multifaceted approach to mitigate its progression. Nurses play a crucial role in this fight by educating patients about proper antibiotic use, emphasizing adherence to prescribed regimens, and advocating for vaccination and infection control practices. By providing direct patient care and consistently addressing questions or concerns about antibiotics, nurses can monitor adherence and help steer patients away from misconceptions that contribute to misuse. Moreover, they are often at the forefront of surveillance in clinical settings, identifying patterns of resistance and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to implement effective strategies that reduce the incidence of resistant infections. Public health professionals and pharmacists also play integral roles in combating ABR. Public health initiatives focus on broad community awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and the monitoring of resistance patterns within populations. They work collaboratively with healthcare providers to spread knowledge about the implications of antibiotic misuse and establish guidelines for antibiotic stewardship programs. Meanwhile, pharmacists are essential in ensuring the rational use of antibiotics. They provide critical consultation on medication management, monitor prescriptions for potential misuse, and offer valuable research insights into alternative treatments. This collaborative effort between nursing, public health, and pharmacy services is vital for creating an informed public, promoting responsible antibiotic use, and ultimately reducing the burden of antibiotic resistance.