1991. Implementation of Rapid Turnaround PCR Bacterial/Viral Panel Testing in Community-acquired Pneumonia Decreases LOS, Antibiotic Cost, Antibiotic Charges, and Antibiotic Use

Abstract

BackgroundCommunity-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a significant infection contributing to hospitalization, morbidity, mortality, intensive care, antibiotic use, and healthcare costs. Antibiotic stewardship aims to improve appropriate antibiotic use which addresses these same issues. Accurate, confirmed diagnosis upon presentation of CAP patients using Respiratory Bacteria/Viral (RBVP) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) panels can significantly impact outcomes in the CAP patient population.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, commercially available RBVP PCR panels were used. Comparison of CAP patient populations was done before PCR use (2014–2015 control group) and after implementation (2016–2017 intervention group) using a provider choice intervention following education and order availability. Providers were educated via multiple means with lectures, individual meetings, online brief presentation, and group discussions. A nursing computer-based learning module was also developed and required to be completed. Independent sample t-test and binary logistic regression were used to analyze data.ResultsOut of total 2,523 observations in the study, 1,994 (79.03%) were in the control group and 529 (20.96%) were in the intervention group. An independent sample t-test showed significant differences in the mean of length of stay (LOS) (P = 0.04, 95% CI: 8.67–9.36), total antibiotic cost (TAC) (P = 0.000, 95% CI: 486.61–550.45), antibiotic charges (ACH) (P = 0.048, 95% CI: 1,815.79–2,009.75), and antibiotic defined daily doses (DDD) (P = 0.039, 95% CI: 6.84–7.42). Binary logistic regression results revealed statistical significance in LOS (P = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.9251–0.9902) and TAC (P = 0.000, 95% CI: 0.9989–0.9994). Actual savings per patient were LOS 0.88 days, TAC $202.73, ACH $240.23, and DDD 0.77.ConclusionThe use of RBVP PCR panel testing in CAP patients decreases antibiotic use, LOS, and cost of care. This correlated with antibiotic de-escalation providing a significant contribution to antibiotic stewardship. PCR panel testing with rapid turnaround is widely available and cost effective.Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.