Resistance, the legal framework and the role of hygiene in wound management
Antibiotics are one of medicine's great achievements. Used inappropriately, however, they can contribute to the development of resistance. This applies to companion animals and livestock as much as to people. Restrained use that matches the indication preserves the efficacy of these agents for cases in which they are needed.
How resistance arises
Resistance arises through selection pressure. Contributing factors include:
- use without sufficient indication
- underdosing or overdosing
- courses that are too short or too long
- overly frequent use
Legal framework
Regulation (EU) 2019/6 on veterinary medicinal products has applied since 28 January 2022. Among other things, it restricts the prophylactic use of antimicrobial medicines. In Germany and Austria it is supplemented by national provisions.
Fundamentals of wound management
Whether an antibiotic is needed is decided by the veterinarian on the basis of findings, extent and, where appropriate, microbiological testing. Wound management includes, independently of this:
- examination and assessment of the wound
- removal of foreign bodies and devitalised tissue
- mechanical cleansing by irrigation
- protection from renewed contamination
- monitoring of the course
Cleansing and hygiene are part of the basics for every wound. For deep, extensive or systemic findings, further diagnostics and, where appropriate, systemic antibiotics are additionally required.
Conclusion
The decision on antibiotics remains a veterinary responsibility and is based on diagnostics and findings. Wound management, including cleansing and hygiene, follows professional standards independently of this.
References
- Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on veterinary medicinal products and repealing Directive 2001/82/EC.