Implementation of a Rational Antimicrobial Use Program in a Rural Health Center in Chile
Keywords:
Uso racional de medicamentos; Antimicrobianos; Atención primaria de salud; Resistencia a los antimicrobianos; Programas de intervenciónAbstract
Introduction: antimicrobial resistance represents a growing threat to public health. Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs aim to promote the rational use of these medicines. In rural settings, their implementation faces challenges associated with limited resources, staff training, and adherence to clinical guidelines.
Objective: to analyze the implementation of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at the El Principal Rural Health Center in Pirque, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and the level of adherence among the health team.
Methods: a descriptive and qualitative study was conducted. The universe consisted of the professionals working at the center, and the purposive sample included clinical and administrative staff directly involved in the program. Semi-structured interviews and document review were carried out. The interviews were individual and conducted under informed consent. Protocols, reports, and clinical records were analyzed following the stages proposed by Bardin for content analysis.
Results: general knowledge of the program was observed, although it was limited in technical aspects. Among the strengths, institutional leadership and the existence of updated protocols stood out. The main weaknesses were limited continuing education, the absence of specific indicators, and resistance to change. Adherence to the program was partial, with better compliance in clinical areas.
Conclusions: the implementation of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program shows relevant progress; however, it requires strengthening through continuous education, systematic monitoring, and full participation of the health team. It is recommended to promote collaborative and ongoing evaluation strategies to optimize its effectiveness.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Marisel Andrea Alvarado Leal, Christian Freddy Hernández Valenzuela, Patricio Puebla Loyola, Jorge Rodríguez Díaz, Ricardo Bracchitta Subercaseaux, Alexis Matheu Pérez
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