“Penicillin is the most commonly reported drug allergy. Although approximately 10 to 20 percent of patients report a history of penicillin allergy, up to 90 percent of these individuals are in fact able to tolerate penicillin and penicillin-like antibiotics,” said Mary L. Staicu, the infectious diseases clinical pharmacy specialist for Rochester (N.Y.) Regional Health.
According to Dr. Staicu, failing to screen for a penicillin allergy can lead to the misuse of more expensive and less effective antibiotics; an increase of resistant bacterial infections such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus and Clostridium difficile; and longer hospital stays.
The playbook provides tips on how to implement a penicillin allergy assessment protocol to help combat antibiotic resistance.
To access the full playbook, click here.
More articles on antibiotic resistance:
3 thoughts on antimicrobial resistance from Mass General’s infection control chief
Europe’s CDC enacts guidelines to control the spread of antibiotic-resistance gene
Many possible STD patients get unnecessary antibiotics, study finds
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.