ID02 - Assessment of Veterinary Technician Interest in and Barriers to Engagement with Hospital Antimicrobial Stewardship

Abstract: Background: Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) are increasingly prevalent in companion animal hospitals, but despite the critical role of veterinary technicians in patient care, there is often a lack of ASP focus on support staff.

Hypothesis/Objectives: To establish baseline attitudes and practices of veterinary technicians in a tertiary care center around antimicrobial use, prior to the institution of a hospital ASP.

Animals: None

Methods: This was a prospective, survey-based study. Data were collected through means of an online questionnaire, consisting of a combination of closed and open-ended questions, sent via a targeted email list. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Results: A total of 39 completed responses were received. Seventy-nine percent of participants felt that antimicrobial stewardship was important, and 54% wanted to be more involved in the ASP. Most participants were comfortable suggesting non-antimicrobial treatment alternatives with doctors or students (92%), but fewer were comfortable discussing the need for antimicrobial time-outs (54%). Technicians listed a lack of familiarity with appropriate treatment choices, and a perception that some doctors may not be open to input from support staff among their barriers to conversations with doctors. Technician suggestions on how to include support staff in the ASP included education on antimicrobial use, and a focus on non-prescribing practices such as infection control.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Our research demonstrates an interest in and a desire to learn more about antimicrobial stewardship in this technician population. Targeted engagement of veterinary support staff may increase success within hospital ASPs.