Abstract
Backgroundβ-lactam allergy is the most commonly reported medication allergy and it remains a key issue in antibiotic prescribing. A detailed and accurate history taking play a key role in preventing potentially serious clinical incidents and it may contribute in reducing costs.MethodsData were collected for patients with a documented penicillin allergy on their drug chart during a six month period. Sources included the inpatient drug charts and medical notes. Adherence to hospital guidelines was audited and costs of treatments were calculated.Results94 patients with a history of penicillin allergy were included. Compliance with the hospital antibiotic policy was 81% and 52% of cases had a description of the reaction documented. The mean additional cost per patient was £89.29 (excluding VAT).ConclusionsIt is important to maintain a high level of vigilance and constantly educate all healthcare professionals involved in prescribing and dispensing antibiotics in order to avoid the unnecessary use of non-penicillin-based antibiotics and associated cost implication.
Highlights
94 patients with a history of penicillin allergy were included
We evaluated compliance with the following standards: allergy history taken, documentation in the drug chart, more detailed documentation clarifying the nature of the allergy written in the medical notes and prescription made according to current antibiotic guidelines
We collected information on 94 patients who gave a history of penicillin allergy over a period of 6 months
Summary
We performed an audit to challenge history taking, documentation and compliance with hospital guidelines as regards β-lactam allergy. Data were collected on patients with a reported β-lactam allergy and treated with antibiotics in a tertiary university hospital (Royal Free London) during a 6 months period. We evaluated compliance with the following standards: allergy history taken, documentation in the drug chart, more detailed documentation clarifying the nature of the allergy written in the medical notes and prescription made according to current antibiotic guidelines. Impact on clinical management and costs were evaluated. Data were collected by a microbiologist/pharmacist using a predefined audit proforma
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