Komfo Anokye Teaching (KATH) Hospital’s Child Health Directorate has launched a new Child Health Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and Antimicrobial Prescribing Guidelines, aimed at improving pediatric care and addressing the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance.
The initiative seeks to standardize clinical practices, ensuring that children receive optimal care while reducing the risks associated with inappropriate antibiotic use. The launch event, held at the hospital, was attended by healthcare professionals, hospital stakeholders, and management.
The SOP provides a structured framework for healthcare providers, promoting consistency in pediatric treatments and reducing the risk of errors. Additionally, the antimicrobial prescribing guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations to ensure antibiotics are used responsibly, helping to combat antimicrobial resistance and improve patient safety.
Professor Sampson Antwi, Head of the Child Health Directorate, stressed the importance of addressing antimicrobial resistance and highlighted the critical role of SOPs in improving healthcare quality. He also revealed plans for a monitoring system to ensure adherence to the new guidelines, including training sessions for staff.
Pharm. Kwaku Sarfo, Director of Pharmacy at KATH, acknowledged that the implementation of the guidelines will take time but commended the directorate for its timely and proactive approach to improving patient care.
Dr. Justice Sylverken, Lead Clinician of the Child Health Directorate, added that the SOP would not only elevate the quality of care but also equip healthcare professionals with the tools to make informed clinical decisions.
The launch, overseen by Acting Medical Director Dr. Yaw Opare Larbi, was hailed as an important step in improving healthcare for children. Dr. Larbi urged healthcare providers to ensure the responsible use of antimicrobials for each patient.
These new guidelines are expected to have a significant impact on child healthcare, both locally and regionally, with the goal of improving outcomes for children and reducing the risks of antimicrobial resistance.
Source:TheDotNews