A systematic review and meta-analysis to identify behavioural content and active ingredients of antimicrobial stewardship education and training interventions in hospital-based care settings
Abstract
Background: The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance has led to efforts to improve the responsible use of antimicrobials (antimicrobial stewardship - AMS). AMS education and training is essential for providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills required to change prescribing behaviours, but the design and delivery of education and training varies, and it is unclear what content, and methods make for more effective education and training. The aim of this systematic review was to apply behavioural science frameworks to specify the content of AMS education and training interventions in hospital settings to determine 'what works' and to evaluate their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL and hand searched studies included in a previous Cochrane review for studies published from January 2015 to February 2025. We applied behavioural science frameworks (Action, Actor, Context, Target and Time framework, Behaviour Change Wheel and Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy) to code intervention descriptions and supplementary materials from published papers into target behaviours, modes of delivery and behaviour change strategies used. Meta-regressions were used to explore the (cost-)effectiveness of different target behaviours, modalities, and behaviour change strategies on reducing antibiotic consumption.
Results: Of the 1845 studies identified, 64 were included in the review and 26 included in the…
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