What must nurses do to ensure appropriate use of antimicrobials?

The appropriate use of antimicrobials involves not only administering them as prescribed but also requires vigilant monitoring for their effectiveness and providing education to patients. This ensures that the treatment is achieving its intended effect and allows for timely adjustments if necessary. Nurses play a critical role in evaluating the patient's response to therapy, which includes observing for improvement in symptoms, checking for side effects, and understanding the results of laboratory tests.

Education is vital as it empowers patients to understand the importance of completing prescribed courses, recognizing symptoms of adverse effects, and adhering to proper medication schedules. When patients are informed about their treatment, they are more likely to participate actively in their healthcare, which fosters better outcomes and reduces the risks of antibiotic resistance.

In contrast, simply administering medications without follow-up or educating patients does not ensure that antimicrobials are used effectively, nor does it consider the nuances of each patient’s treatment plan. Conversations about medications should be encouraged, and decisions on antimicrobial use should be based on individual diagnosis and susceptibility rather than a blanket application to every patient.