Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) is a collection of activities that monitors and promotes the use of antimicrobial medicines (e.g. antibiotics for bacterial infections). AMS aims to optimise the use of these life-saving medicines, and is vital for tackling the growing pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistant (AMR) infections.
Our research aims to optimise the prescribing and use of antimicrobials by measuring, changing, and supporting clinical practice through a range of methodologies.
AMS & AMR
Our research spans primary and secondary care settings and helped to identify gaps in care pathways and clinical practice, which we are working to address to improve the use of antimicrobials and also patient care.
As well as leading research into the optimal use of antimicrobials in the UK, we contribute to national policies and guidelines on antimicrobial prescribing, and collaborate with colleagues worldwide.
Publications
Nurses’ attitudes, behaviours, and enablers of intravenous to oral switching (IVOS) of antibiotics: a mixed-methods survey of nursing staff in secondary care hospitals across the Midlands region of England
Journal Hospital Infection (2024)
Systematic review of high-dose amikacin regimens for the treatment of Gram-negative infections based on EUCAST dosing recommendations
European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy (2023)
Ongoing work
Our projects continue to focus on antimicrobial stewardship and optimising the use of these important medicines. These are some examples of research that is currently underway:
- Long term antimicrobial prescribing for urinary tract infections in primary care.
- Empowering nursing staff to promote IV to Oral switch of antibiotics in hospitals.
Collaborators & Partners
Our research benefits from a number of collaborations and partnerships:
- LLR Training Hub
- NHS England
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust
Research team
Dr Ryan Hamilton
Associate Professor of Antimicrobials & Consultant Pharmacist
Mrs Zahra Mahomed
Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice