Outpatient intravenous antibiotic therapy. Ten years' experience

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Outpatient intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy has emerged as a viable alternative to inpatient treatment.
• Previous experiences suggest potential for cost savings and patient benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of outpatient IV antibiotic therapy.
• To identify key components for successful implementation of such programs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of patient data from Methodist Hospital and Park Nicollet Medical Center over ten years.
• Inclusion of patients across all age groups with diverse infections like bone, joint, skin, soft-tissue, and meningitis.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated relative ease of implementation with substantial cost savings.
• No significant morbidity or mortality observed in patients receiving outpatient IV antibiotic therapy.
• High patient compliance and enthusiasm reported.

Conclusions:

• Outpatient IV antibiotic therapy is a safe and cost-effective treatment modality.
• Essential elements include an enthusiastic medical staff, central admixture service, and dedicated nursing care.
• Patient selection, education, and follow-up are critical for success.