1304. From Information Bolus to Continuous Infusion: Resident Knowledge and Satisfaction With an “Antibiotic of the Month” Educational Initiative at an Academic Children’s Hospital

BACKGROUND: Medical trainees play a critical role in the prescribing of antimicrobials. Prescriber education is one of the CDC core elements of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Optimal strategies for educating residents about antimicrobials have not been identified; however, the common practice of teaching all classes of available antibiotics over a short period of time (usually a single 1–2 hour lecture or “bolus”) is generally not well received and likely ineffective. METHODS: We developed a novel antibiotic of the month (AOTM) education program (“continuous infusion”) for pediatric residents. It included a monthly 10-minute presentation by an infectious diseases physician or fellow about a single commonly prescribed antibiotic, a handout summarizing important aspects of the antibiotic and a display posted in the resident workroom. An anonymous survey was sent to all pediatric residents before and 6 months after implementation of the AOTM program. The survey consisted of questions on demographics, satisfaction with the program, and antibiotic knowledge. Responses were tabulated and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Responses were summarized and reported as a proportion of total responses. RESULTS: Both pre- and post-implementation surveys were completed by 21 pediatric residents (51% response rate). Prior to the AOTM program, 55% of respondents felt very or somewhat uncomfortable about their current level of knowledge about antimicrobials and antimicrobial prescribing. Six months after initiation of the program, 86% and 76% agreed or strongly agreed that their knowledge of antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance, respectively, had improved. After introduction of the program, 81% felt more comfortable or much more comfortable with antimicrobial prescribing. Fifty-seven percent had referenced the handout at some point after the teaching session and 100% agreed that the program was worthwhile continuing in the next academic year. CONCLUSION: A continuous infusion of antimicrobial education in the form of an AOTM education program was well received among pediatric residents and increased their knowledge and comfort level with antimicrobial prescribing. Further studies to measure knowledge retention with this strategy are required. DISCLOSURES: All authors: No reported disclosures.