Audit of Ticarcillan/Clavulanate Usage in a Large Teaching Hospital

Abstract

ABSTRACTAimTo assess compliance with ticarcillin/clavulanate prescribing guidelines, appropriateness of prescribing and to identify any patterns of inappropriate use that may aid in improving prescribing.MethodPatients on ticarcillin/clavulanate were prospectively reviewed over an 8‐week period. Data collected included: demographics, diagnosis, hospital or community‐acquired infection, specific bacteriology, type of treatment, dose, dose quantity, appropriateness of treatment, and compliance with guidelines.Results100 patients on ticarcillin/clavulanate were reviewed and 65% were compliant with guidelines. Treatment was considered appropriate in 76% of patients. Non‐compliant/inappropriate usage was most commonly observed in community‐acquired pneumonia.ConclusionThis audit indicated widespread use of ticarcillin/clavulanate outside hospital prescribing guidelines, although in some cases, use was considered appropriate.