What is the purpose of tracking antibiotic use in healthcare facilities?

The purpose of tracking antibiotic use in healthcare facilities primarily revolves around preventing resistance. Monitoring antibiotic usage helps healthcare providers understand patterns in prescribing and identify potential overuse or misuse of antibiotics, which can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This resistance can severely limit treatment options for infections and poses a significant public health risk.

By keeping an accurate record of antibiotic prescriptions and their outcomes, healthcare facilities can implement guidelines and interventions aimed at optimizing antibiotic use, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring the effectiveness of these crucial medications for future patients. In essence, the goal is to ensure that antibiotics remain effective in treating infections by minimizing the development of resistant strains of bacteria.