Conclusions. Despite qualitative evidence demonstrating the impact of behavioral determinants and social
norms on prescribing, these influences are not given due consideration in the design and evaluation of
interventions. To ensure a better understanding of prescribing behaviors and to improve the quality of interventions
and research in this area, the incorporation and application of behavioral sciences supported by appropriate
multidisciplinary collaboration is recommended.
Up to one-third of all hospitalized patients receive antimicrobials,
[1, 2] and studies show that 25%–68% of
hospital antimicrobial prescribing is suboptimal [3, 4].
Unequivocal evidence links inappropriate and excessive
use of antimicrobials with an increase in the incidence
of Clostridium difficile–as