In an audit of antibiotic prescribing on a hospital ward, which activity would best meet the aim of checking alignment with local prescribing protocols?

• A. Collecting data on the prescribing of antibiotics
• B. Drafting a new protocol for antibiotic use
• C. Training staff on antibiotic stewardship
• D. Conducting patient interviews about antibiotic use

Answer: (A)

Auditing practice is about measuring current practice against a standard. To assess whether antibiotic prescribing on a ward aligns with local protocols, you need concrete information about what was actually prescribed. Collecting data on antibiotic prescribing—including drug choice, dose, route, duration, indication, and whether these match the local protocol—provides the evidence you can compare with the protocol. This reveals adherence levels and gaps, guiding improvements. Drafting a new protocol is development work, not measurement of current practice. Training staff focuses on education and stewardship implementation, not evaluating existing adherence. Patient interviews explore experiences rather than directly showing how closely prescribers followed the protocol. So collecting data on prescribing best serves the aim.