Paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT): An e-survey of the experiences of parents and clinicians.

Bernie Carter,David Taylor-Robinson,Matthew Peak,Steven Lane,Enitan D Carrol,Debra Fisher-Smith,David Porter,Louise Bracken,Kingston Rajiah

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0249514

Abstract

BackgroundLittle evidence exists about parental satisfaction and their influence on referral to paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT).AimThis study aimed to examine the experiences of parents, children and clinicians of OPAT at a large tertiary children’s hospital.MethodA prospective e-survey, using closed and open questions, of parents (n = 33) of 33 children who had received OPAT (3 children completed a survey), and clinicians (n = 31) involved in OPAT at a tertiary hospital. Data were collected September 2016 to July 2018.ResultsData were analysed using simple descriptive statistics. The results show that OPAT offered benefits (less stress, re-establishment of family life) compared to hospital-based treatment for parents and children, although some were anxious. Clinicians’ referral judgements were based on child, home, and clinical factors. Some clinicians found the process of referral complex.ConclusionMost parents and children were satisfied with the OPAT service and preferred the option of home-based treatment as it promoted the child’s comfort and recovery and supported family routines.

Highlights

Little evidence exists about parental satisfaction and their influence on referral to paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT)
The results show that OPAT offered benefits compared to hospital-based treatment for parents and children, some were anxious
In a consensus statement on good practice recommendations for paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) in the UK, OPAT for children is defined as the parenteral administration of antimicrobials for at least two consecutive days without an intervening hospitalisation [1]

Summary

Introduction

In a consensus statement on good practice recommendations for paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) in the UK, OPAT for children is defined as the parenteral administration of antimicrobials for at least two consecutive days without an intervening hospitalisation [1]. Outpatient treatment of children with serious bacterial infections (SBIs) using parenteral antimicrobial therapy commenced in the mid-1970s [2] and the scope, context and number of services has increased and children with diverse needs and conditions and across the age span receive OPAT [3,4,5]. This partly reflects a turn to more home-based and family-centred care across health services [6]. Little evidence exists about parental satisfaction and their influence on referral to paediatric Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT).

Objectives

Discussion

Conclusion