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A comparison of antibiotic point prevalence survey data from four Irish regional/general hospitals

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Abstract

Introduction

Point prevalence surveys (PPS) are increasingly used to examining and compare hospital antibiotic consumption. The aim of this study was to identify the (1) point prevalence of antibiotic use in one regional hospital and (2) compare PPS data from similar regional/general hospitals.

Methods

Data were collected on all inpatients with an active antibiotic prescription and on all prescriptions issued in the emergency department over a 24-h period. Point prevalence data were obtained from three other regional/general hospitals.

Results

The frequency of antibiotic use was hospital A = 29%, B = 38%, C = 34% and D = 37%. Overall, the most commonly prescribed antibiotic was co-amoxiclav (30%), followed by macrolides (12%). However, new generation broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as piperacillin/tazobactam or ciprofloxacin, were also commonly used. Prescribing for common conditions such as respiratory infection or cellulites showed diverse antibiotic selection.

Conclusion

Point prevalence survey data using a standardised methodology could facilitate both local audit and national benchmarking to monitor antibiotic use.

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Acknowledgments

We would like to thank all the nursing, pharmacy, medical staff and senior hospital management in each of the four hospitals for their ongoing support and help in this area.

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Author notes

  1. C. Naughton

    Present address: UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, UCD Health Sciences Centre, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Quality, Audit and Risk Management Team, HSE-Dublin Mid Leinster, Midlands Regional Hospital Mullingar, Mullingar, Westhmeath, Ireland

    C. Naughton

  2. Pharmacy Department, Wexford General Hospital, Wexford, Wexford, Ireland

    Y. Hennessy

  3. Pharmacy Department, St Lukes Hospital, Kilkenny, Kilkenny, Ireland

    C. Mannion

  4. Pharmacy Department, Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, Tullamore, Offaly, Ireland

    M. Philbin

Authors
  1. C. Naughton
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  2. Y. Hennessy
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  3. C. Mannion
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  4. M. Philbin
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to C. Naughton.

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Naughton, C., Hennessy, Y., Mannion, C. et al. A comparison of antibiotic point prevalence survey data from four Irish regional/general hospitals. Ir J Med Sci 180, 457–461 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-011-0677-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-011-0677-5

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