Antibiotic stewardship programs (ASP) have already demonstrated clinical
benefits. We aimed to describe the Point Prevalence Surveys (PPS)
methodology implemented in our hospital as an efficient tool to guide ASP
strategies. Annually repeated PPS were conducted from 2012 to 2019 at a 750-
bed university hospital in South Spain. Key quality indicators and
inappropriateness of antimicrobial treatment, defined strictly according to
local guidelines, were described. Variables associated with inappropriate
treatment were identified by bi/multivariable analysis. A total of
1,600 patients were included. We found that 49% of the prescriptions were
inappropriate due to unnecessary treatment (14%), not first line drug
recommended (14%), inadequate drug according to microbiological results
(9%), unsuitable doses (8%), route (3%) or duration (7%). Samples collection
presented a significant protective effect together with sepsis presentation at
onset and intensive care unit admission. However, age, receiving an empirical
treatment and an unknown or urinary source of the infections treated were
independent risk factors for inappropriateness. Site and severity of infection
were documented in medical charts by prescribers (75 and 61% respectively).
PPS may allow identifying the main risk factors for inappropriateness. This simple methodology may be useful for ASP to select modifiable factors to be
prioritized for targeted interventions