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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
11:17

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses

Published on: August 30, 2018

Prescribing practices and attitudes toward giving children antibiotics

E Paluck1, D Katzenstein, C J Frankish

  • 1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver.

Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|April 3, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Many physicians overprescribe antibiotics for pediatric upper respiratory infections, often without laboratory confirmation. Education on antimicrobial resistance and appropriate prescribing is needed.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Overprescribing antibiotics for pediatric upper respiratory infections is a significant concern.
  • Understanding physician prescribing patterns and attitudes is crucial for antimicrobial stewardship.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of antibiotic overprescribing in pediatric upper respiratory infections.
  • To identify factors influencing antibiotic prescribing decisions in children.

Main Methods:

  • A random, stratified sample of 608 family physicians in British Columbia was surveyed via mail.
  • A 64% response rate was achieved, with 392 completed questionnaires analyzed.
  • Physicians' self-reported prescribing practices, knowledge, and attitudes regarding antibiotic use were assessed.

Main Results:

  • While most physicians followed guidelines for cough and pneumonia, over half (56.5%) would prescribe antibiotics for tympanic membrane dysfunction without culture.
  • A significant majority (79.4%) would prescribe antibiotics for pharyngitis without laboratory confirmation.
  • Many physicians underestimated the link between antibiotic use and the development of drug-resistant infections.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted education on current pediatric respiratory illness treatment and antimicrobial resistance is necessary.
  • Physician interest in educational materials indicates a need for improved antimicrobial stewardship strategies.
  • Addressing physician knowledge gaps can help reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing in pediatric care.
Abstract

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