Ten golden rules for optimal antibiotic use in hospital settings: the WARNING call to action

Abstract

Antibiotics are recognized widely for their benefits when used appropriately. However, they are often used inappropriately despite the importance of responsible use within good clinical practice. Effective antibiotic treatment is an essential component of universal healthcare, and it is a global responsibility to ensure appropriate use. Currently, pharmaceutical companies have little incentive to develop new antibiotics due to scientific, regulatory, and financial barriers, further emphasizing the importance of appropriate antibiotic use. To address this issue, the Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery established an international multidisciplinary task force of 295 experts from 115 countries with different backgrounds. The task force developed a position statement called WARNING (Worldwide Antimicrobial Resistance National/International Network Group) aimed at raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance and improving antibiotic prescribing practices worldwide. The statement outlined is 10 axioms, or "golden rules," for the appropriate use of antibiotics that all healthcare workers should consistently adhere in clinical practice.

More by Natalya Glushkova

• Unmet Needs and Caregiving Burden Among Informal Caregivers of Older Adults: A Qualitative StudyNursing Reports · 2026
• An approach to assess the impact of measures mitigating burden associated with COVID-19 in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia)Scientific Reports · 2026
• Understanding Cardiovascular Mortality and Disability in Central Asia: A GBD-Based Analysis and Forecast to 2050Epidemiology and Health Data Insights · 2026 · Citations: 1
• The Potential Role of Taurine in Cancer Therapy: Mechanisms of Action and Future DirectionsCurrent Medicinal Chemistry · 2026