The role of elearning on antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) : A review

Abstract

The inappropriate prescription of antimicrobials is currently one of the primary public health problems around the world. As a result, bacteria become drug-resistant resulting in increased patient stays in hospitals and affecting the economy of a community by elevating the costs of its treatment. In order to prevent those complications, several kinds of educational initiatives have been taking place; some of which have included the use of technology to expand its reach and to boost their learning effects. The purpose of this study was to explore and determine how eLearning can enhance the educational outcomes of programs on antimicrobial's prudent use and optimization. Hence, a literature review that followed Fink’s seven tasks approach was conducted. Based on the available evidence, the online educational interventions designed by healthcare organizations to promote the rational and responsible use of antimicrobials were divided into four categories: (1) learning and instructional theories, (2) online learning platforms, (3) multimedia learning, and (4) motivation. In short, this study shows that eLearning can assist in enhancing the educational outcomes of ASPs by appealing to students’ desire and motivation to engage in tasks that encourage the love of learning. Also, by providing the institutions in charge of designing these learning initiatives with an extensive range of learning and instructional theories and an almost infinite set of technological resources to carry out sound learning experiences.