Antibiotic optimization in hospitalized children with non-severe community-acquired pneumonia: lessons from an antimicrobial stewardship intervention (2022-2024).

Clinical pathway implementation improved adherence to evidence-based antibiotic prescribing, reduced broad-spectrum use, and increased early intravenous-to-oral transitions without compromising outcomes.

However, unchanged therapy duration and LOS highlight the need for further antimicrobial stewardship interventions, clinician education, and integration of viral and bacterial diagnostics to support optimal antibiotic use.