Antibiotic resistance is a national and global public health crisis.  Each year in the United States (US), at least 2 million people become infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and at least 23,000 people die as a direct result of these infections. An estimated 14,000 deaths each year occur due to C. difficile infection.  The driving force that selects for antibiotic-resistant bacteria and promotes Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection is antibiotic use. Since at least 50% of antibiotic use is inappropriate in the US regardless of healthcare setting, antibiotic stewardship activities are extremely important in managing antibiotic resistance.  


Learning Objectives: 

1. Describe the importance and need for antibiotic stewardship 
2. Identify key areas of concern regarding antibiotic resistance 
3. Describe current and emerging antibiotic stewardship strategies to target antibiotic resistance
4. Assess the evidence for antibiotic stewardship in managing antibiotic resistance