Multidisciplinary tool kit for febrile neutropenia: Stewardship guidelines, staphylococcus aureus epidemiology, and antibiotic use ratios

Rachel Bartash, Kelsie Cowman, Wendy Szymczak, Yi Guo, Belinda Ostrowsky, Adam Binder, Carol Sheridan, Michael Levi, Philip Gialanella, Priya Nori

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

PURPOSE Inappropriate vancomycin for febrile neutropenia (FN) is an ideal antimicrobial stewardship target. To improve vancomycin prescribing, we instituted a multifaceted intervention, including an educational guideline with audit for compliance; an antibiotic use audit; and an assessment of local burden of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization and infection. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a quasi-experimental pre-post intervention review of vancomycin initiation for FN on a 32-bed hematology/oncology unit. A retrospective chart review was conducted from November 2015 to May 2016 (preintervention period). In January 2017, we implemented an institutional FN guideline emphasizing criteria for appropriate use. Vancomycin audit was conducted from February 2017 to October 2017 (postintervention period). The primary outcome was appropriateness of vancomycin initiation. We then compared average antibiotic use (days of therapy per 1,000 patient days) for vancomycin and cefepime before and after intervention. Finally, unit-wide MRSA screening cultures were obtained upon admission and bimonthly for 6 weeks (October 2, 2017, to November 9, 2017). Screened patients were followed for 12 months for clinical MRSA infection. RESULTS Forty-three (49%) of 88 preintervention patients were started on empiric vancomycin appropriately, compared with 59 (66%) of 90 postintervention patients (P = .02). There was a significant decrease in vancomycin use after intervention. Six (7.1%) of 85 patients screened positive for MRSA colonization. During the 12-month follow-up, no colonized patients developed clinical MRSA infections (positive predictive value, 0.0%). Of the 79 noncolonized patients, 2 developed a clinically significant infection (negative predictive value, 97.5%). CONCLUSION Guideline-focused education can improve vancomycin appropriateness in FN and should be bundled with education and feedback about local MRSA epidemiology and antibiotic use rates for maximal stewardship impact.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)E563-E572
JournalJCO Oncology Practice
Volume16
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2020

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Health Policy
  • Oncology(nursing)

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