What is antimicrobial resistance and why does it matter for carers?

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites evolve so that medicines, including antibiotics, become less effective. The UK Government and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) describe AMR as one of the most significant public health threats of our time. In care homes, residents are often older, frail, or have long-term conditions, making them particularly vulnerable to infections that are harder to treat when resistance develops.

For carers, understanding antimicrobial resistance is essential. Daily practices in hygiene, infection control, and medicine support can significantly reduce the spread of resistant infections and promote safe antibiotic use.

Why Antimicrobial Resistance Matters in Care Homes

AMR can have serious consequences in social care settings:

• Treatment challenges: Common infections such as urinary tract infections, chest infections, or sepsis become more difficult to treat if antibiotics are ineffective.

• Resident vulnerability: Frail residents or those with multiple conditions are at higher risk of complications.

• Overuse and misuse: Improper prescribing, leftover antibiotics, or incorrect administration accelerates resistance.

By reducing unnecessary infections and supporting correct medicine use, carers play a vital role in protecting both residents and the wider community.

Carers’ Role in Preventing AMR

Infection prevention is the first line of defence:

• Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently and correctly.

• PPE and cleaning: Use gloves, aprons, and masks where appropriate, and maintain thorough cleaning routines.

• Outbreak management: Contain infections quickly to reduce the need for antibiotics.

Supporting prudent prescribing:

• Only administer antibiotics when prescribed.

• Never share medicines or use leftovers.

• Follow instructions carefully regarding dose, timing, and duration.

Observing and reporting:

• Record symptoms such as temperature changes, urine appearance, coughs, or other signs of infection.

• Provide accurate observations to prescribers to ensure appropriate treatment decisions.

Promoting completion of courses:

• Support residents to finish prescribed antibiotics unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Vaccination promotion:

• Encourage flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia vaccines, which reduce infections and consequently antibiotic use.