Implementation Of A Carbapenem Prescribing Algorithm At A Community Hospital

Background Carbapenem (CAR) antibiotics have broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Unrestricted use can lead to limited susceptibility profiles. Imipenem-cilastatin was also identified as the antipseudomonal β-lactam with the lowest susceptibility to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (88%) at our 79-bed community hospital. The Antimicrobial Stewardship Committee (ASC) developed an initiative to decrease overall CAR usage by improving prescribing habits and promoting the appropriate use of these antibiotics.