Antibiotic Stewardship at HLTHi

Audience: all

Antibiotic stewardship means using antibiotics carefully and correctly to help fight infections while preventing antibiotic resistance. At HLTHi, we support patients and healthcare providers in understanding when antibiotics are needed and how to use them safely. This guide explains the importance of antibiotic stewardship, how telemedicine can help, and what you should know before, during, and after a telemedicine visit. Using antibiotics only when necessary helps keep them effective for everyone. If you have symptoms of infection, a telemedicine visit can often provide advice and guidance, but some situations require in-person care. Knowing the signs that need urgent attention and following your healthcare provider's instructions are key steps in safe and effective antibiotic use.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever above 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 3 days — seek in-person medical evaluation.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe allergic reaction signs (rash, swelling, difficulty swallowing) after taking antibiotics — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate infections.
• Guidance on antibiotic use and stewardship principles.
• Follow-up consultations to monitor response to treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe infections requiring physical examination or urgent intervention.
• Emergency symptoms like difficulty breathing or severe allergic reactions.
• Procedures or tests that require in-person attendance.

What Is Antibiotic Stewardship?

Antibiotic stewardship is the practice of using antibiotics only when they are needed and in the right way. This helps treat infections effectively and reduces the chance that bacteria become resistant to antibiotics. Resistant bacteria are harder to treat and can spread to others.

Why Is Antibiotic Stewardship Important?

Using antibiotics incorrectly, such as for viral infections or not finishing the prescribed course, can lead to antibiotic resistance. This makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of complications. Stewardship helps protect your health and the health of your community.

How Telemedicine Supports Antibiotic Stewardship

Telemedicine allows you to consult healthcare providers remotely. Providers can assess your symptoms, recommend tests if needed, and decide if antibiotics are appropriate. This helps avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and supports timely treatment when antibiotics are needed.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, gather information about your symptoms, any medications you are taking, allergies, and your medical history. Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly and answer questions about your health. Having this information helps your provider make the best decisions.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your provider's instructions carefully, including how to take any prescribed antibiotics. Watch for any side effects or worsening symptoms. If your condition does not improve or you develop new symptoms, seek further medical advice promptly.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some situations require physical examination or urgent treatment. If you experience high fever, severe pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, or worsening symptoms, seek in-person care immediately. Telemedicine can guide you but cannot replace emergency or hands-on care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your current symptoms with start dates.
• Note any allergies or previous reactions to antibiotics.
• Have a list of current medications and supplements.
• Prepare to describe your medical history, including chronic conditions.
• Ensure a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed, without skipping doses.
• Complete the full course even if you feel better early.
• Monitor for side effects or worsening symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or you have concerns.
• Avoid sharing antibiotics with others or using leftover antibiotics.

FAQs

Why shouldn't I use antibiotics for every infection?

Antibiotics only work against bacterial infections, not viruses like the common cold or flu. Using antibiotics when they are not needed can cause side effects and lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.

What happens if I stop antibiotics early?

Stopping antibiotics before finishing the prescribed course may not fully clear the infection. This can allow bacteria to survive and become resistant, leading to more serious infections later.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe antibiotics safely?

Yes, telemedicine providers can assess your symptoms and medical history to decide if antibiotics are appropriate. They follow guidelines to ensure safe and effective use, but some cases may require in-person evaluation.

What should I do if I have side effects from antibiotics?

If you experience mild side effects like nausea, contact your provider for advice. For severe reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately.

How can I help prevent antibiotic resistance?

Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare provider, take them as directed, and never share or save antibiotics for later. Practicing good hygiene and vaccinations also help prevent infections.

Sources

1. Antibiotic Use and Resistance — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Antibiotic Stewardship — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Antibiotic Resistance — National Library of Medicine.
4. Antibiotics: Are You Misusing Them? — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guide provides general information and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have serious symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.