Improving antimicrobial prescribing: implementation of an antimicrobial IV-to-oral switch policy

Antimicrobial stewardship programmes reduce the risk of hospitalassociated infections (HAI) and antimicrobial resistance, and include early intravenous-to-oral switch (IVOS) as a key stewardship measure. We audited the number of patients on intravenous antimicrobials suitable for oral switch, assessed whether prescribing guidelines were followed and reviewed prescribing documentation in three clinical areas in the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, in late 2012.