| Description |
My project is to review the literature related to the microbiome and the effects of antibiotic use. I will write a manuscript synthesizing and summarizing the information I find. Problem Statement: Healthcare providers are generally unaware of recent studies that show how the complex microbiome plays an integral part in health and disease. The wealth of knowledge that is being gained through research of the microbiome is having a large impact on healthcare delivery, especially treatment. In particular, studies have found that antibiotics can cause fundamental changes in the microbiome, and some of these changes are correlated with disease. When clinicians are aware of this knowledge, they will be more cautious with antibiotic prescription and be better prepared to treat diseases while supporting the microbiome, which will lead to improved outcomes, decreased antibiotic resistance and increased patient satisfaction. Additionally, educating clinicians about this single concept of the microbiome's role in health and disease is paramount as new discoveries will impact treatment of diseases in the near future. Objectives: The purpose of this project is to disseminate information regarding the microbiome to healthcare providers, especially nurse practitioners, through a peer-reviewed journal. 1. A manuscript will be written in accordance with a peer-reviewed journal's guidelines for publication 2. The manuscript will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for publication 3. An abstract will be submitted to a conference for a poster or podium presentation Literature Review: Numerous studies have shown significant correlations between the microbiome and the following conditions and areas of health; obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal health, immune function, mental health, women's health, oral/dental health, dermatological diseases, and pediatrics. Antibiotics have been shown to have short and long term impacts on the microbiome, with some effects lasting more than 4 years (Dethlefsen & Relman, 2011). Additionally, individuals taking antibiotics are at a greater risk for antibiotic resistant bacteria and Clostridium difficile infection (Stewardson, Huttner, & Harbarth, 2011). Unfortunately, antibiotics are being prescribed inappropriately 50-60% of the time in numerous settings and situations (Barnett & Linder, 2013; Grijalva, Nuorti, & Griffin, 2009; Hersh, Shapiro, Pavia, & Shah, 2011). There are several different ways to get and maintain the microbiome healthy; through diet, the use of prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplants. |
