PhD Study : Evaluation of the effectiveness of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs on prescribing, utilisation and resistance in primary and secondary care settings

Apply and key information

Summary

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global threat which is primarily resulting from suboptimal antimicrobials use and in appropriate prescribing. Increased rates of AMR limit the options of effective antimicrobial agents, increases multi-drug resistant microbes and leads to increased rates of patients morbidity and mortality ^[1-3]. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is a cost-effective means of reducing the progression of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) ^[4-5].Effective implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs (AMS program) seeks to optimise antimicrobial use and prescribing and decreases the rate of antimicrobial resistance ^[6-7]. Evaluation of the effectiveness and adherence to AMS programs in primary and secondary care settings will help to identify current gaps in the effective use of antibiotics and provide appropriate measures to fight AMR.

Underlying aim

The overall aim of the project is to evaluate the effectiveness, appropriateness and suitability of AMS programs implemented within primary and secondary care settings.

A secondary aim of this work is to identify the patterns of resistance and design adequate measures to optimise antimicrobials prescribing and use..

Specific objectives

Assess and compare the quantity and quality of antimicrobial prescribing and resistance patterns within primary and secondary care settings.
Monitor antibiotic consumption and stewardship policies using WHO Global-PPS and AWaRe tools in both primary and secondary care settings.
Identify any changes to antibiotic prescribing practice such as unregulated use of antimicrobials, non-adherence to clinical guidelines, poor documentation of indications and intended duration of antimicrobials.
Identify interventional targets required to optimise antimicrobial use and prescribing in light of WHO-GLASS for AMR and AMC
Investigate AMS program activities, barriers and limitations to the effective implementation of AMS programs within primary and secondary care settings
Evaluate intravenous to oral antimicrobial switch strategies within all hospital sites included in the study
Evaluate the prevalence and trends of AMR patterns in primary and secondary care settings

Impact

Identifying patterns of antimicrobial resistance and optimising antimicrobial use and prescribing will improve patients outcomes, increase numbers of antimicrobials available to fight infections and reduce healthcare cost.

Please note that Bench Fees of £2000 per annum will be required to support this project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

First Class Honours (1st) Degree
Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
Publications - peer-reviewed
Experience of presentation of research findings
Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area
A demonstrable interest in or experience of using open science methods
Recognition of the importance of research integrity and Open Science practices

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.