Practice patterns and perceptions of influenza testing amongst pediatric urgent care providers

Abstract

IntroductionDespite a sensitivity of 50% to 70% the rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) continues to play an important role in clinical decision-making due to its quick turn-around time, high specificity, relative simplicity of use, and low cost. MethodsA quantitative study using a web-based survey was distributed to 110 members of the Society of Pediatric Urgent Care aimed to assess RIDT use for diagnosis and management of influenza in outpatient pediatric patients. ResultsResponses from 61 providers were received. Forty-two percent (95% CI 29.5−54.5%) of respondents report higher confidence in their diagnosis of influenza with the aid of a positive RIDT. 28% of respondents (95% CI 16.6−39.4%) report a higher likelihood of prescribing antiviral medications to low-risk patients if an RIDT is positive than without laboratory confirmation. ConclusionMost pediatric urgent care respondents reported higher confidence in their diagnosis and higher likelihood of prescribing antivirals with a positive RIDT rather than by clinical symptoms alone.