Nurses can combat RND-mediated resistance through several strategies:
1. Infection Control Protocols: Strict adherence to infection control protocols can help prevent the spread of resistant bacteria. This includes hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and isolation procedures when necessary.
2. Patient Education: Educating patients on the importance of taking the full course of prescribed antibiotics, even if they feel better, can help reduce the development of resistance.
3. Antibiotic Stewardship: Nurses can advocate for antibiotic stewardship programs that promote the appropriate use of antibiotics. This includes ensuring that antibiotics are prescribed only when necessary and that the right antibiotic is chosen for the specific infection.
4. Surveillance: Monitoring and documenting antibiotic resistance patterns can help healthcare providers select the most effective treatments.
