[Inquiry on the use of cephalosporins in Switzerland]

In July of 1980 an inquiry was conducted on the use of cephalosporins (CS) in Swiss hospitals. 387 senior physicians answered the questionnaire with reference to the following points: -- Frequency of CS administration compared with the use of aminopenicillins and of combinations of several penicillins. -- Reasons for switching from one CS to another CS derivative. -- Major indications and principles of CS administration. -- Frequency of oral administration of CS. -- Use of CS in bacterial meningitis and in infections by anaerobic bacteria. -- Combination with aminoglycosides. -- Preference to particular CS derivatives. In the light of practical experience and a multitude of additional comments by the respondent physicians, an attempt is made to define guidelines for CS application.