Book excerpt: In an age where antimicrobial resistance amongst pathogens grows more prevalent, particularly in the hospital setting, antimicrobial stewardship is an evidence-based, proven measure in the battle against resistance and infection. This single comprehensive, definitive reference work is written by an international team of acknowledged experts in the field. The authors explore the effective use of coordinated antimicrobial interventions to change prescribing practice and help slow the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, ensuring that antimicrobials remain an effective treatment for infection. Amongst the first of its kind, this book provides infectious disease physicians, administrators, laboratory, pharmacy, nursing and medical staff with practical guidance in setting up antimicrobial stewardship programs in their institutions with the aim of selecting the optimal antimicrobial drug regimen, dose, duration of therapy, and route of administration.