
ASP (antibiotic stewardship programs)
Antibiotic Stewardship Programs (ASPs) are initiatives designed to promote the responsible use of antibiotics in healthcare settings. Their goal is to prevent antibiotic resistance, which occurs when bacteria evolve and become immune to medications. ASPs involve guidelines for prescribing antibiotics only when necessary, selecting the right drug, and determining the proper dosage and duration. By educating healthcare providers and patients, ASPs help ensure antibiotics remain effective for treating infections, while minimizing potential side effects and the risk of resistant infections in the community.