Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 24, 2026
Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Duration of Antibiotics Prescribed at Hospital Discharge
1Internal Medicine, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine.
Introduction:
A patient's transition from hospitalization to discharge may represent an additional opportunity for antibiotic stewardship.
Methods:
We reviewed antimicrobial drugs prescribed at discharge to patients at our medical center over a nine-month period, and calculated the total duration of inpatient and outpatient antibiotic therapy.
Results:
The median duration of inpatient antibiotics was three days (interquartile range [IQR] four days), of outpatient antibiotics was seven days (IQR six days), and of total antibiotics 10 days (IQR six days).
Conclusions:
Our results align with the only previously published study of oral antibiotics prescribed at hospital discharge, both in the duration of inpatient and outpatient therapy and in the fact that about 60 percent of the treatment duration occurred after discharge. However, the median total antibiotic duration of 10 days is longer than that recommended by national and institutional guidelines for some of the most common infections in hospitalized patients.
Insights
Discharged patients often receive a median of 10 days of antibiotics, with most prescribed after hospitalization. This total duration frequently exceeds guidelines for common infections, highlighting a stewardship opportunity.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Hospital discharge presents a critical juncture for optimizing antibiotic use.
- Effective antibiotic stewardship during patient transitions is crucial for combating antimicrobial resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the duration of antibiotic therapy prescribed at hospital discharge.
- To evaluate adherence to antibiotic stewardship guidelines for common infections.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of antimicrobial drugs prescribed at discharge was conducted over nine months.
- The total duration of both inpatient and outpatient antibiotic therapy was calculated.
Main Results:
- The median duration for inpatient antibiotics was 3 days, and for outpatient antibiotics was 7 days.
- The median total antibiotic duration was 10 days, with approximately 60% prescribed post-discharge.
- This median total duration exceeds recommended guidelines for several common infections.
Conclusions:
- Antibiotic prescribing at hospital discharge often results in prolonged treatment durations, with a significant portion occurring after the patient leaves the hospital.
- The findings underscore the need for enhanced antibiotic stewardship interventions during the discharge process.
- Current prescribing patterns may not align with established guidelines, necessitating a review of discharge antibiotic protocols.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Relationship: Influence of Elimination Half-Life on Effect Duration
01:19Dosage Interval and Administration Route: Determination Methods
01:31Discharge Summary Forms
Here's a detailed look at the key components and guidelines for preparing a discharge summary:
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:29Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
01:28Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management