Define antimicrobial stewardship and explain its importance in improving patient safety and combating antimicrobial resistance. Apply principles of rational antibiotic prescribing, including appropriate selection, dosing, duration, and de-escalation of antimicrobials. Differentiate between empirical, targeted, and prophylactic antibiotic use and identify common areas of misuse. Interpret basic microbiology and culture sensitivity results to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. Recognize the role of multidisciplinary collaboration (clinicians, pharmacists, laboratory, IPC team) in effective antimicrobial stewardship. Implement stewardship practices that align with hospital policy, national guidelines, and SafeCare quality standards.