Prudent Use of Antimicrobials (PHAR305)

Course overview

Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing problem in both human and veterinary medicine. Whenever an antimicrobial is used, it inadvertently selects for resistance by killing or inhibiting sensitive bacteria and leaving behind resistant organisms. As a result, medicines become ineffective and infections persist, increasing hospital times, cost and morbidity. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to superbugs that are difficult or impossible to treat with our current antibiotic options. This course will discuss the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance, the use of "best" practices to avoid the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance.