Reducing inappropriate antibiotic use among children with influenza infection
Bat-Chen Friedman1, Derek Schwabe-Warf, Ran Goldman
1BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC.
Insights
To reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions during flu season, focus on infection prevention through vaccination and rapid testing. Educate physicians and families on appropriate antibiotic use to combat resistant bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Antimicrobial Stewardship
Background:
- Influenza season presents a challenge with frequent parental requests for antibiotics for viral illnesses.
- Inappropriate antibiotic use for viral infections like influenza contributes to antibiotic resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify strategies for minimizing the inappropriate prescription of antibiotics during peak influenza seasons.
- To address parental concerns regarding antibiotic treatment for influenza-like illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical practices and guidelines for influenza management.
- Emphasis on preventative measures and diagnostic tools.
- Educational strategies for healthcare providers and families.
Main Results:
- Antibiotic use for viral infections fuels the rise of resistant bacteria strains.
- Preventative strategies are key to reducing antibiotic misuse.
Conclusions:
- Vaccination, rapid influenza testing, and timely antiviral treatment are crucial.
- Enhanced education for physicians and families on appropriate antibiotic use is essential to reduce misuse and overuse.
Question:
With the influenza season reaching a peak, I see numerous children in my clinic with fever and influenza-like illnesses. Parents are concerned and at times ask for antibiotic treatment in hopes that the treatment will shorten the duration of illness. What strategies can I use in order to minimize inappropriate prescription of antibiotics during the influenza season?
Answer:
Use of antibiotics for treatment of viral infections such as influenza contributes to the emergence of resistant bacteria strains. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics can be reduced by preventing the infection and its complications through vaccination, point-of-care rapid influenza testing, and early antiviral treatment when appropriate, as well as constantly increasing the knowledge of both physicians and families regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease
Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed.
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...

