Antimicrobial resistance presents an imminent threat to the future of New Zealanders’ wellbeing and access to effective, safe healthcare. This article describes initiatives for improving antimicrobial stewardship, the New Zealand antimicrobial prescribing landscape as it stands, and actions that can be taken immediately in primary care.
World AMR Awareness Week 18–24 Nov
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global crisis and a growing problem in Aotearoa New Zealand. The main cause of AMR is antimicrobial use, and every year World AMR Awareness Week aims to improve understanding of this issue through effective communication and education.1
One way that health providers can help slow AMR is by including an indication on every antimicrobial prescription. As well as helping to conserve antimicrobial effectiveness, documenting the specific reason for use on the prescription (eg, ‘cystitis’ or ‘pyelonephritis’, rather than ‘UTI’ or ‘infection’) may improve communication with other healthcare providers and the patient.2
Click here for resources and more information about World AMR Awareness Week.
For more education on the wise use of antimicrobials click here.
References
- WHO. World Antimicrobial Awareness Week.
who.int/campaigns/world-antimicrobial-awareness-week/2023 Accessed October 2023. - NZ Antimicrobial Stewardship/Infection Pharmacist Expert Group. Document the Indication. World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2020. psnz.org.nz/practicesupport/antimicrobial/indication Accessed October 2023.
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