Sensitivity and specificity answer the wrong questions
Understanding diagnostic test statistics is crucial when determining how useful it is. Sensitivity and specificity are often quoted but actually these only go so far. Here we explain how predictive values are far more useful for veterinarians and how prevalence of disease can affect your testing.
When Cultures Lie
Bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing is essential for antimicrobial stewardship, but is it always right? Here we breakdown some common mistakes and discuss how veterinarians can optimise their sampling to improve their culture results.
A contemporary approach to rational antimicrobial prescribing: Part 2
Antimicrobial guidelines can help veterinarians to prescribe rationally, but understanding what goes into these guidelines can inform to guide antimicrobial choice when faced with an unfamiliar infection. Knowledge of the microbiology of infections can be crucial to ensure appropriate treatment is given.
A contemporary approach to rational antimicrobial prescribing: Part 1
The goal of responsible antimicrobial prescribing is to use "as much as needed and as little as possible” but that can be hard to implement on the clinic floor. This article breaks down antimicrobial stewardship into practical steps for the veterinary surgeon.
Antimicrobial Prescribing Myths
Dispelling common antimicrobial prescribing myths in the veterinary practice.