TIMELY ADMINISTRATION OF ANTIMICROBIALS AND ANTIMICROBIAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS: NURSING PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Objective: to identify the performance of nursing professionals in the Antimicrobial stewardship Program (ASP) and the barriers to the timely administration of antimicrobials. Method: Survey-type study, with 158 nursing professionals from hospitals and emergency care units. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 151 (96%) of the participants agree that nursing plays a relevant role in the ASP; about 50% of the participants declared that they had not received training on antimicrobial administration; N=32 (29%) of nurses and N=6 (12%) of assistants/technicians that the institution does not have protocols for the administration of antimicrobials. Obstruction of venous access, work overload, absence of the patient in bed and delay in dispensing were identified as barriers to the timely administration of antimicrobials. Conclusion: professionals recognize possibilities for action in the EMP, in addition to situations that may compromise the timely administration of antimicrobials and the need for protocols, training and professional sizing.