A NEW systematic review and meta-analysis sheds light on the growing role of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) in improving clinical outcomes for hospitalized adults with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), a condition that remains a leading cause of hospitalization and antibiotic use in the United States.
Analyzing data from multiple studies that met strict PICOS criteria, researchers found that while ASPs did not significantly affect in-hospital mortality, hospital stay duration, 30-day readmission rates, or the length of intravenous antibiotic use, they did drive several meaningful improvements in care delivery.
Among the most compelling findings was a 31% reduction in 30-day mortality among patients managed under ASP protocols. Patients also reached clinical stability more quickly, and there was a significant boost in the use of Legionella urinary antigen testing, which increased nearly threefold. Additionally, the time from hospital admission to antibiotic initiation was significantly reduced, highlighting ASPs’ effectiveness in streamlining early intervention.
The study also noted improved adherence to both timely antibiotic administration and recommended antibiotic regimens, although variability across outcomes suggested that results may depend heavily on how the ASPs are structured and implemented.
Authors of the review emphasized that multifaceted strategies, including rapid diagnostics and targeted clinician education, are critical to success. They advocate for ongoing investment in tailored, interdisciplinary ASP approaches to enhance outcomes and reduce antibiotic resistance.
While not all outcomes shifted significantly, the data reinforce the clinical value of ASPs in managing CAP and underline the importance of continued refinement to maximize impact.
Reference: Ablakimova N et al. Antimicrobial stewardship interventions in hospitalized adults with community-acquired pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2025. doi: 10.1007/s10096-025-05122-8. [Epub ahead of print].
