bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
105. Fluoroquinolone Stewardship at a Community Health-System: A Decade in Review
Authors: Song Matthew , Wilde Ashley , Wilde Ashley , Moore Sarah E , Bohn Brian C , Schulz Paul S
Published: December 2021

Background

Fluoroquinolone stewardship is a common target for antimicrobial stewardship programs seeking to maintain or improve fluoroquinolone susceptibility rates. Additional benefits include reducing C. difficile infection rates, drug toxicities, and resistance to other antimicrobials as fluoroquinolones can co-select for resistance. The Norton Healthcare antimicrobial stewardship program was founded in 2011 and provides services at 4 adult hospitals with ~1600 beds. Main fluoroquinolone stewardship activities have included provider education, prospective audit and feedback, and guideline and order-set development. The purpose of this study was to describe the resistance and usage rates of fluoroquinolones over time.

Methods

This was a descriptive study examining individual adult hospital antibiograms from 2010 to 2020. Levofloxacin susceptibility rates to E. coli and P. aeruginosa were collated from annual antibiograms between 2010 and 2020 for outpatients and each adult hospital. Adult hospital resistance rates were aggregated and weighted accordingly to number of isolates per hospital per year. Additionally, levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin inpatient days of therapy (DOT) was collected since 2016 when DOT was first readily retrievable and was normalized per 1000 patient days to compare between different time points.

Results

Outpatient levofloxacin likelihood of activity against P. aeruginosa improved from 81% to 91%. Outpatient levofloxacin likelihood of activity against E. coli remained stable between 84 – 86% (Figure 1). Adult inpatient fluoroquinolone usage decreased by approximately 75% from 83.5 to 21.37 DOT/1000 patient days since 2016 (Figure 2). Adult inpatient levofloxacin likelihood of activity against P. aeruginosa improved from 53% to 83%. Adult inpatient levofloxacin likelihood of activity against E. coli improved from 65% to 75% (Figure 3).

Conclusion

The Norton Healthcare antimicrobial stewardship program has been effective in reducing unnecessary fluoroquinolone usage and improving inpatient fluoroquinolone susceptibility rates. Future studies should examine opportunities to translate successes to the outpatient phase of care.

Disclosures

Ashley Wilde, PharmD, BCPS-AQ ID, Nothing to disclose Paul S. Schulz, MD, Gilead (Consultant, Speaker’s Bureau)Merck (Consultant, Speaker’s Bureau)
107. Impact of Penicillin Allergy Assessment During Pre-Anesthesia Testing (PAT) on Beta-Lactam Surgical Prophylaxis in Bariatric Surgery Patients
Authors: Hitchins Maggie , Watts Amber M , Holt Shannon
Published: December 2021

Background

Due to utilization of alternative antibiotics, documented penicillin (PCN) allergies are associated with an increased risk of surgical site infections, cost, and infections caused by resistant organisms. In October 2019, a community hospital implemented a beta-lactam (BL) allergy assessment service in a pre-anesthesia testing (PAT) clinic without access to allergy specialists or PCN skin testing (PST). In phase 1, the surgeon was contacted to change surgical prophylaxis for BL eligible patients based on the assessment. In phase 2, an automatic protocol was implemented to allow advanced practice providers (APPs) to switch from alternative antibiotics in BL eligible patients. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of the PCN assessment service and protocol on BL surgical prophylaxis.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included bariatric surgery patients who visited PAT clinic with a documented BL allergy between Jun 2019-Sept 2019 (control), Nov 2019-Feb 2020 (phase 1), and Nov 2020-Feb 2021 (phase 2). Patients with procedures not requiring surgical prophylaxis were excluded. Patients were determined to be eligible for BL surgical prophylaxis if: intolerance or mild-moderate reaction to PCN, previously tolerated cephalosporin, intolerance to cephalosporin, or surgeon deemed it appropriate. The primary outcome was overall utilization of BL surgical prophylaxis.

Results

This study included 38 patients in the control group, 14 in the phase 1 group, and 17 in the phase 2 group. Overall utilization of BL surgical prophylaxis significantly increased with 16% in the control group, 43% in the phase 1 group, and 65% in the phase 2 group (p=0.001). In the BL eligible patient subgroup, BL surgical prophylaxis significantly increased with 35% (n=6/17) in the control group, 50% (n=6/12) in the phase 1 group, and 92% (n=11/12) in the phase 2 group (p= 0.001). There were no reported surgical site infections or adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion

Overall utilization of BL surgical prophylaxis significantly increased after implementation of a PCN allergy assessment service with an automatic protocol for patients determined as BL eligible. This service and protocol demonstrates successful optimization of surgical prophylaxis when allergy specialists or PST is not available.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
108. Evaluation of the Impact of Dalbavancin Usage on Clinical Outcomes, Cost-Savings, and Adherence at a Large Safety Net Hospital
Authors: Wei Wenjing , Mang Norman , Ortwine Jessica , Meisner Jessica A , Lueking Richard
Published: December 2021

Background

Dalbavancin is a long-acting second-generation lipoglycopeptide antibiotic with potent activity against Gram-positive organisms. Dalbavancin is currently FDA approved for acute bacterial skin and soft tissue infections (ABSSTIs). Growing evidence suggests that patients can be successfully treated with dalbavancin for indications outside of skin and soft tissue infections which include bacteremia and osteomyelitis (OM) with significant cost savings and reduced length of stay. We developed a protocol for the use of dalbavancin in patients who required intravenous antibiotics for serious bacterial infections but did not qualify for outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT). During the COVID-19 pandemic, we expanded the protocol to reduce the amount of clinical contact required for all patients.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we reviewed all patients that received at least one dose of dalbavancin in either inpatient or outpatient setting at Parkland Hospital from July 2019 through February 2021. Patient demographics, type of infection, and rationale for dalbavancin were collected at baseline. Clinical response was measured by avoidance of Emergency Department (ED) visits or hospital readmission at 30, 60, and 90 days. In addition, a separate analysis was conducted to estimate hospital, rehabilitation, or nursing home days saved based on their diagnosis and projected length of treatment.

Results

Twenty-eight patients (24 inpatient, 4 outpatient) were included in the study. The majority were uninsured (89%), homeless (64%), or had active intravenous drug use (IDU) (60%). Indications for use included SSTI (42.9%), bacteremia (64.3%), and OM (42.6%). Clinical failure was observed in 4 (14%), 1 (3.5%), and 2 (7.1%) patients at 30, 60, or 90 days (respectively). Nonadherence to medical recommendations, lack of source control, and ongoing IDU increased risk of returning to the hospital. Dalbavancin use saved a total of 381 days of inpatient/rehab/facility stay.

Baseline Characteristics of Patients

Types of Infections and Microbiology

ED Visit or Readmissions at 30, 60, or 90 Days

Conclusion

Dalbavancin showed similar rates of success with improved length of stay and cost savings. The use of long acting lipoglycopeptides are desirable alternatives to traditional OPAT for patients that otherwise would not qualify for OPAT or desire less hospital contact.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
110. MRSA nasal swab as a stewardship tool to guide IV Vancomycin in diabetic foot infections
Authors: Lazo-Vasquez Alex , Piazza Michael , Cordova Leopoldo , Bjork Lauren , Zamora Gonzalez Rolando A , Lichtenberger Paola , Lichtenberger Paola , Baracco Gio
Published: December 2021

Background

The Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines suggest empiric Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) coverage for Diabetic Foot Infection (DFI) with a history of MRSA infection, if local prevalence is high, or if the infection is severe. However, data suggests that there is overutilization of vancomycin in this population and this medication is associated with toxicity. MRSA nasal screen has a high negative predictive value (NPV) for ruling out MRSA in pneumonia and other sites. We performed a medication utilization evaluation (MUE) for Vancomycin IV in DFI patients who had an MRSA nares screen to determine our own NPV of this test and feasibility to use it as an antibiotic stewardship program (ASP) tool to guide vancomycin use in this population.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 224 patients from January 2015 to January 2020 who had a diagnosis of DFI and an MRSA nasal screen. 139 patients had cultures done. For the NPV, we excluded patients who had any MRSA positive culture or screen up to a year from admission (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Flowchart from our medication utilization evaluation showing patient’s distribution by MRSA-screen result

Results

We found 148 (66%) patients with DFI who had received IV vancomycin empirically during the admission and 196 of them were MRSA-nares negative (Figure 2). The average days of therapy (DOT) in the MRSA-nares negative patients was 5.2 days vs 4.8 in the MRSA-nares positive patients. Out of the 139 patients with a negative MRSA nasal swab, 124 had no MRSA in cultures, yielding an NPV of 89%. If we considered only the deep cultures, the NPV increased to 90%.

Figure 2. Number of patients who received IV vancomycin grouped by MRSA-screen result

Conclusion

We identified overutilization of IV vancomycin in patients with a diagnosis of DFI in our institution. Also, our NPV of the MRSA-nasal screening to rule out MRSA infection in DFI was high at 89% similar to previous studies. Based on these findings, we plan to implement a local ASP protocol (Figure 3) using MRSA nasal swab screen to decrease the empiric use of vancomycin. The results of these efforts will be analyzed and published in future iterations with the hopes to share this knowledge to reduce the use of IV vancomycin in this population in other centers.

Figure 3. Protocol draft to be used as an ASP tool to guide IV vancomycin de-escalation based on MRSA-nasal screen for DFI patients

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
111. Assessment of Empiric Management Practices of Common Infections in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients at a Canadian Tertiary Care Centre - A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ahmad Syed Z , Kothari Sagar , Zhao Michelle , Teixeira-Barreira Abbigayle , Richmond Mark , Husain Shahid
Published: December 2021

Background

Post-transplant infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR). Standardized antimicrobial treatment guidelines for infectious syndromes may contribute to improved clinical care. Our study seeks to assess the rate of therapeutic compliance with local standard guidelines in the treatment of common infections in SOTR, and their associated outcomes.

Methods

Consecutive adult SOTR admitted to the transplant floor from January–May 2020 for treatment of an infectious syndrome of interest were reviewed for study inclusion. Patients were followed until discharge or for 30 days following the date of diagnosis, whichever was shorter. Data was extracted from electronic medical records.

Results

475 SOTR were admitted to the transplant floor, of which 156 patients (33%) were admitted with infectious syndromes. Guidelines were applicable to 117 patients, constituting the following 122 syndromes: 51 pneumonias; 34 urinary tract infections (UTI); 22 bacteremias and 15 intra-abdominal infections (Fig. 1). Intra-abdominal infections occurred earliest at a median time of 9 months post-transplant followed by bacteremias, pneumonias, and UTIs (medians 10, 38 and 54 months respectively) (Table 1). 47% of patients were empirically treated with a regimen compliant with guidelines and 66% were provided compliant tailored therapies. Non-compliance with empiric management guidelines resulted in a significantly higher proportion of patients requiring ICU transfer when compared to compliance (25% vs. 9%; P = .02) (Table 2). Non-compliance with tailoring protocols resulted in an increased overall length of stay (medians 11 days vs. 8 days; P = .04). Within 30 days of discharge, no differences in readmission, development of Clostridium difficile infection, rejection, graft loss or death were observed between patients receiving compliant or non-compliant regimens.

Figure 1. Study Flow Diagram

Table 1. Baseline Characteristics of Patient Cohort

Table 2. Outcomes of compliant vs. non-compliant treatment in patients receiving antimicrobial therapy for an infectious syndrome

Conclusion

Non-compliance with locally developed antimicrobial management guidelines resulted in a higher proportion of patients being transferred to the ICU and an increased length of stay in our cohort, highlighting the benefits of adherence. Future studies will assess long-term outcomes associated with compliance to infection management guidelines.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
112. Prescriber Perceptions on Utilization of the Antibiotic Self-Stewardship Time Out Program (SSTOP) at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMC): A Strategy for Improved Antibiotic Use
Authors: Goedken Cassie , Judd Joshua , Butler Jorie M , Brown Nui G , Rubin Michael , Goetz Matthew B , Goetz Matthew B
Published: December 2021

Background

Evidence is lacking on how to implement effective and sustainable antibiotic stewardship strategies. The Antibiotic Self-Stewardship Time Out Program (SSTOP) evaluated the implementation at VAMCs of an “Antibiotic Timeout” 3 days after the initiation of antibiotics to encourage providers to review continued use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Methods

Sites launched the SSTOP note templates in a rolling fashion from June 2019-March 2020. Clinical pharmacists largely drove the implementation. The vancomycin note template was implemented at 6 of 8 sites and the antipseudomonal note template across 4 of 8 sites. Two sites were unable to launch the note templates due to lack of resources, however they utilized SSTOP principles/guided tools. From Sept 2019-Nov 2020 we conducted post-launch qualitative interviews with Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ASP) champions involved in implementation across the 8 VAMCs. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed for thematic content.

Results

Feedback from ASP providers suggests prescribers had mixed reviews on the note template, but overall liked the process and deemed it to be straightforward. Many valued the algorithm, indicating it was helpful in both thinking about antibiotics prior to initiation, and identification of appropriate antibiotics. Barriers included staffing (e.g., rotating residents/turnover), surgery service, information technology (IT) support, COVID-19, and the need to remind providers to use the template. Facilitators consisted of strong stewardship, local champions (e.g., ID Fellow), medicine service, and SSTOP data feedback reports. Recommendations largely centered on improvements to the note template usability and to SSTOP feedback reports (e.g., inclusion of patient/provider-level data).

Conclusion

Overall, the SSTOP note templates were considered acceptable and straightforward. By guiding providers to prescribe more appropriate antibiotics, they act as influencers for practice change, and may strengthen provider/ASP relations. Plans for continued utilization of the note templates after the project concludes suggest SSTOP may serve as a way to achieve sustainable promotion of antibiotic use improvements.

Disclosures

Matthew B. Goetz, MD, Nothing to disclose
116. Impact of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in the First Year of Pandemic 2020 in a Large,Academic, Public Network Hospitals in Bogotá,Colombia
Authors: Solorzano Ramos Carlos A , Ruiz Palma Erika A , Muñeton Lopez Gerardo A , Rodriguez Camilo Gomez , Castro Solarte Elena V , Lemos Luengas Elkin V
Published: December 2021

Background

Antimicrobial resistance is a major public health threat internationally but, particularly in Colombia. High and increasing rates of carbapenemases are challenging. Implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs (AMSs) in a large, academic, public network hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia.will help curb inappropriate antibiotic use.

Adherence to AMS Program 2020. Subred Integrada de Servicios de Salud Sur Occidente E.S.E Bogotá, Colombia.

Impact of an Antimicrobial Use Optimization Program in the First Year of Pandemic 2020 in a Large, Academic, Public Network Hospitals in Bogota Colombia

Methods

AMS was established in April 2020 consisting of an administrative champion, Infectious Diseases staff, nurse, General Physician, microbiologist, and pharmacists. Antimicrobial stewardship program interventions included postprescriptive audit and establishment of institutional guidelines. The AMS tracked appropriate drug selection including loading dose, maintenance dose, frequency, route, duration of therapy, de-escalation, and compliance with AMS recommendations. Defined daily dose (DDD) of drugs and health economics evaluations of antimicrobials (April-December 2020). Recommendations are placed in the electronic medical record as a progress note.

Results

From April to December 2020, 1013 patients were evaluated by means of a prospective methodology. Unnecessary 689 days of hospitalization and 4420 days of antibiotic therapy were avoided. Among the top antibiotics discontinued were piperacillin tazobactam for the months of July, August, November and December, while for September and October was meropenem. The intensive care unit was the most frequently intervened service (52%), followed by hospitalization (43%) and the emergency department (5%).Over the course of the year, there was significant adherence to the program, with 100% in July, followed by 93.3% in April, 87% in December, 86.6% in May and June, 83% in November, 80% in September, 73.3% in August and 57% in October. The AMS program was able to save &47.409US in antibiotics and &55.529US in hospitalization, and 11% decrease in nephrotoxicity events (14 renal failures were avoided), which also saved additionally & 23.503 US for a total of an estimated cost saving for the network public hospitals of & 126.441 US by 2020.

Conclusion

Implementation of a multidisciplinary antibiotic stewardship program in this academic, large, academic, public network hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia demonstrated feasibility and economic benefits even in a Covid19 pandemic situation.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
120. Antimicrobial Prescribing Guidance and Communication Among Health Care Professionals in Five Guatemalan Hospitals
Authors: Ramay Brooke M , Secaira Clara I , Chavez Nuria , Toledo Mario Augusto Melgar , Lou-Meda Randall M , Sandoval Nancy V , Maldonado Herberth G
Published: December 2021

Background

Communication among health care professionals during antimicrobial prescribing is critical to ensure appropriate use. This is of concern in Guatemala where physicians seldom consider guidance from other professionals during antimicrobial prescribing activities.

Methods

We carried out a cross sectional questionnaire and open ended interviews with physicians from five hospitals in Guatemala to describe perceptions of communication between health care providers, and acceptance of antimicrobial guidance during prescribing.

Results

From January to April 2021 an electronic questionnaire was sent to enrolled physicians of which 74% completed participation (n=107/145). Fifty-five percent participated in open ended interviews (n=79/145). Respondents perceived high levels of communication between physicians and ID specialists (94% of respondents); 52%, and 54% perceived high levels of physician-pharmacist, and physician-nurse communication respectively. Significant differences in the perception of physician-pharmacist communication were detected when comparing responses between hospitals, and between respondent sex (chi2, p< 0.05). Barriers to communication between professionals included lack of local guidelines or protocols, patient overload, COVID-19 pandemic, lack of mentorship, and little room to discuss antimicrobial therapy with higher-ranking physicians. Eighty percent and 45% of physicians were open to receiving antibiotic optimization recommendations from other physicians, and pharmacists respectively. Notable barriers to accepting recommendations from pharmacists included lack of regular communication, lack of clinical experience, and concern about evidence based recommendations.

Conclusion

Effective communication is perceived between physicians during antimicrobial prescribing activities. Marginal levels of communication and acceptance of prescribing recommendations have been detected between physicians and pharmacists.In this milieu, there is an opportunity to strengthen multidisciplinary teams to optimize antimicrobial use.

Disclosures

Mario Augusto Melgar Toledo, MD, Merck (Grant/Research Support)Pfizer (Grant/Research Support)
122. Optimization of Antibiotic Time-Outs Within a Health System
Authors: Long Ashley , Revolinski Sara , Daniels Anne R
Published: December 2021

Background

The Infectious Diseases Society of America estimates that up to 50% of antibiotic use in hospitals is inappropriate. In order to assist with reducing inappropriate antibiotic use, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended systemic evaluation of ongoing antibiotic therapy need, such as antibiotic time-outs (ATOs), be implemented. This has further been supported by the Joint Commission in their antimicrobial stewardship medication management standard. Our system implemented a prescriber-led ATO process in 2018, but documented completion of the ATO remained low. Due to this, pharmacists were integrated into the ATO process with the goal of increasing completion rates.

Methods

This pre-post interventional study analyzed the impact of an antibiotic time out process implemented for patients receiving piperacillin/tazobactam (P/T) or cefepime (CEF) for a minimum of 48 hours. The pre-group (Jan-April 2018) had ATOs completed by the primary medical team, while pharmacists completed the ATO in the post group (Jan-April 2020). For each group, a computerized alert prompted completion of the ATO in the electronic health record (EHR). The alert included systematic questions to assess the need for continued P/T and CEF use. The primary outcome was percentage of ATO documentation completed. Secondary outcomes included inappropriate continuation of P/T and CEF and de-escalation within 24 hours after ATO completion.

Results

A total of 248 and 234 patients in the pre- and post-groups were included, respectively. Significantly more ATOs were documented in the post-group compared to the pre-group (65.5% vs 48.5%, p< 0.001). Similarly, inappropriate continuation of P/T and CEF after the ATO process was significantly lower in the post-group compared to the pre-group (11.6% vs 64.0%, p< 0.001). While not statistically significant, there was a trend toward increased de-escalation in the post-group within 24 hours of ATO completion (58.9% vs 47.9%, p=0.105).

Conclusion

A pharmacist-led ATO process reduced inappropriate use of P/T and CEF compared to a prescriber-led process. Incorporating pharmacists into an ATO process may optimize antimicrobial stewardship outcomes.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
123. Formal Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at a Children’s Hospital Within a Larger Academic Medical Center Decreases Antimicrobial Prescribing
Authors: Feustel Paul , Botti Mark , Andrews Shannon
Published: December 2021

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship is a coordinated approach to antimicrobial overprescribing, an avoidable contributor to adverse events in children. Implementation of a formal pediatric antimicrobial stewardship program (pASP) in a children’s hospital within a hospital poses unique challenges due to staffing, funding, and institutional priorities. We hypothesized that a formalized pASP would decrease antimicrobial prescribing in a children’s hospital within a large academic medical center.

Methods

We extracted pharmacy administration data for all patients receiving systemic antimicrobials in a tertiary care, academic children’s hospital in Upstate NY from 3/1/2020-5/31/2021. We grouped patients into floor (including patients with surgical, hematologic, and oncologic processes), pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We calculated antimicrobial days of therapy per 1000 patient days (DOT/1000PD) for 6 months before, 3 months during, and 6 months after institution of pASP. The formalized pASP involved physician and pharmacy leadership of prospective audit and feedback. We developed run charts and used two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with an effect of location, an effect of the intervention, and an interaction effect. Significant effects were then tested using Tukey’s test for multiple comparisons.

Results

Run charts are displayed in figures 1-3. Overall, the pediatric floor(DOT/1000PD=1181) had significantly higher prescribing than the PICU(847), which was significantly higher than the NICU(327) (p< 0.001, ANOVA). Antimicrobial prescribing after pASP dropped by 80 DOT/1000PD (98%CI: 23 to 137) (p=0.008; Tukey’s test) after including the effect of location. The interaction effect was not significant (p=0.77; ANOVA) suggesting that the intervention did not have a significantly different effect in the three locations.

Variation in Antimicrobial Prescribing on the Pediatric Floors

Variation in Antimicrobial Prescribing in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Variation in Antimicrobial Prescribing in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Conclusion

Antimicrobial prescribing decreased following implementation of a formalized pASP in a children’s hospital within a large academic medical center. Despite unique challenges with implementation in this environment, antimicrobial stewardship remains effective. Variation between floor, PICU, and NICU antimicrobial prescribing was also notable.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
124. Implementation of IV Push Antibiotics for Outpatients During a National Fluid Shortage Following Hurricane Maria
Authors: Yagnik Kruti J , Saad Hala , Bird Cylaina , Brown Steven , Alvarez Kristin , Mang Norman , Cerise Frederick , Bhavan Kavita
Published: December 2021

Background

Prior to the introduction of intravenous (IV) drip infusion, most IV drugs were delivered in a single bolus. However, with the advent of new agents, IV drip infusions became the standard for all medication delivery. In September 2017, Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico and took a devastating toll. As Puerto Rico is the largest supplier of IV fluid bags, this lead to a worldwide fluid bag shortage. The outpatient antimicrobial therapy program (OPAT) was significantly impacted by the fluid shortage and this required effective stewardship at the Parkland Health and Hospital System in order to serve a largely uninsured and under-insured patient population.

Methods

Parkland pharmacists evaluated all self-administered antimicrobials for viability of administration as an IV single bolus push (IV-push) instead of a mini-bag infusion (IV-drip infusion). These medications were transitioned to IV-push for patient care. Data was gathered on patient demographics, 30-day readmission rates, mortality, discharge teaching satisfaction, patient satisfaction, and cost evaluation.

Results

113 treatment courses were self-administered using the IV-push method and were compared to 102 self-administered courses using the IV drip infusion method, over the same time course. Individuals using IV-push had a statistically significant decrease in hospital length of stay as compared to those using IV-drip infusion. The 30-day readmission rate, emergency department visits, and mortality were similar between groups. Patient satisfaction was greater with IV-push (96% preferring). The shift to IV-push via the S-OPAT program saved 504 liters of normal saline, which along with a reduction in supplies and drug costs, resulted in an additional savings of &43,652 over a 6-month period.

Conclusion

The abrupt IV fluid shortage following a natural disaster challenged clinicians to think differently about standard practices. This led to implementation of a high value care model that is sustainable without affecting safety, efficacy, or efficiency. Given the cost savings, increased patient satisfaction, and equal clinical outcomes, the IV push model is not only a viable alternative initiated during a crisis; it is preferable in many standard situations.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
126. Outpatient Antimicrobial Stewardship Utilizing a Decentralized Model
Authors: Powers Harry , McMullan Stephen , Anderson Therese , Boeff Deborah , Bonner William , Epps Kevin L , Harris Dana , LaCouture Jacqueline , Leak Michelle A , Leybeg Angelica , Riffe Izabela , Schnusenberg Lynda , Mendez Julio C
Published: December 2021

Background

The majority of human antimicrobial utilization occurs in the outpatient setting. Despite being mainly viral in etiology, upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) were the most common indication for outpatient antimicrobial prescriptions at our institution.

Methods

Through our electronic health record (EHR), we were able to determine our rate of antibiotic prescriptions for inappropriate URI diagnosis at our primary care practice sites. We selected staff volunteers from each our primary care practice sites to serve as stewardship champions. They were given training in stewardship best practices, and an URI stewardship toolkit which included viral URI prescription pad, EHR order panel, and patient education signage. They were tasked with providing education and feedback to their practice sites. We meet with them on a monthly basis to disseminate prescribing data and education. They also provided feedback from practice sites to the stewardship committee.

Results

Our decentralized model was put in place in November 2020. In the 6 months prior to the intervention, the average prescribing rate was 29.1%. In the 6 months after the intervention, the average prescribing rate decreased by 15% to 24.8%. During the intervention phase, there was an increase in number of non-COVID URIs diagnosed at our primary care sites.

Temporal Trend in Inappropriate Antibiotics Prescribing Rates for Viral URIs Pre- and Post- Intervention

Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rate for viral upper respiratory tract infections from May 2020 until May 2021. Intervention started in December 2021 (arrow). Pre-intervention average was 29.1%. Post-intervention age was 24.8% which is a 15% decline in prescribing rate.

Viral Upper Respiratory Infections Visits

The total number of visits for presumed viral upper respiratory infections to primary care sites from May 2020 until May 2021. The majority of COVID-19 precautions in the area expired at the end of March 2021.

Conclusion

We have been able to lower our inappropriate prescriptions for URIs utilizing a decentralized model of stewardship champions. This result was especially notable as the intervention phase corresponded with the end of COVID-19 precautions and an increase in non-COVID URIs diagnosed. The advantage of this approach includes an advocate embedded at each practice site who is familiar with the opportunities and challenges of the site, and a two-way flow of information from practice sites to the stewardship committee. This model provided additional benefit during the COVID-19 pandemic as the ability of centralized staff to travel to off campus clinic sites was curtailed.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
128. Development of an Analytics Dashboard to Monitor Antimicrobial Selection and Duration for Pneumonia
Authors: Marx Ashley , Browder Sydney E , Liu Jason C , Swartwood Michael J , Mavrogiorgos Nikolaos
Published: December 2021

Background

Analytical and visual tools can be used to monitor progress for a variety of ASP key performance indicators, but few data describe the process of building disease-state specific tools to retrospectively monitor antimicrobial choice and duration. We describe process and methods for development of a pneumonia dashboard.

Methods

In late 2019, the Carolina ASP began construction of a dashboard to monitor antimicrobial selection and duration in patients admitted with a diagnosis code (ICD-10) consistent with pneumonia. Data extracted from the medical record after discharge included: admission date and time, admission and discharge ICD-10s, inpatient orders and administrations for agents included in the NHSN Antimicrobial Use (AU) option, and antimicrobials ordered at discharge with associated ICD-10. Extracted data fields were validated using a one-month sample. Displays were constructed to trend selection during the first 48 hours of admission, inpatient days of therapy, and total length of therapy (sum of inpatient + outpatient days) for patients who received a discharge prescription for an antimicrobial included in the AU option that was associated with an ICD-10 consistent with pneumonia. Trends observed between Jan 2020 and Mar 2021 are reported.

Results

341 admissions were trended. Within the first two days of admission, monthly proportions of patients receiving an antimicrobial by category were: anti-MRSA therapies (vancomycin, linezolid), 0.20 to 0.75; broad spectrum beta-lactams (e.g., cefepime, pip/tazo), 0.40 to 0.81; CAP therapies (e.g., ceftriaxone, levofloxacin), 0.48 to 1.00 (Figure). Median inpatient duration of therapy was 5 days (IQR 3-8; range 1 to 68). Total length of therapy was median 6 days (IQR 4-10; range 1 to 68).

Figure. Proportions of Patients Prescribed Antimicrobial Categories of Interest During the First 48 Hours of Admissions for Pneumonia. Legend: Anti-MRSA = vancomycin or linezolid; HAP abx = cefepime, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime, meropenem; CAP = ceftriaxone, azithromycin, ampicillin/sulbactam, amoxicillin/clavulanate, cefdinir, levofloxacin.

Conclusion

Automated reports and visual tools can provide actionable insights for ASP practice. From this dashboard, we identified variable but high rates of anti-MRSA and broad-spectrum beta-lactam use within the first 48 hours of admission. The median inpatient and total length of therapy of 5 and 6 days, respectively, were similar to guideline-recommended durations. The up-front cost for building analytical tools can be substantial, but can be viewed as an investment if the metrics and methods are carefully selected.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
129. Safety and Cost-effectiveness Analysis Outpatient Continuous Parenteral Antibiotics via a Disposable Elastomeric Pump at Two County Hospitals in Houston, Texas
Authors: Rao Aishwarya , Karimaghaei Sam , Chijioke Juliet , Constance Kristin , Finch Natalie , Masayuki Nigo
Published: December 2021

Background

Outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy (OPAT) is a therapeutic option for patients who require longer intravenous (IV) antimicrobial courses, yet do not need to remain hospitalized. HarrisHealth system OPAT programs implement a disposable elastomeric continuous infusion pump (eCIP) for IV antibiotics. Here we report the clinic-demographic features, outcomes of a cohort of patients receiving OPAT via eCIP (OPAT-eCIP), as well as the cost-effectiveness of OPAT in comparison to standard inpatient care.

Methods

We retrospectively obtained the clinic-demographic characteristics and outcomes of 91 patients discharged from HarrisHealth-affiliated hospitals from December 2018 to February 2021 who underwent OPAT-eCIP. We then compared the total costs associated with home OPAT-eCIP care with that of an equivalent of inpatient IV antimicrobial treatment based on previous studies.

Results

We identified 481 total OPAT patients; 91 (18.9%) received intravenous antibiotics via eCIP, with two initiating therapy outpatient. In total, 1925 days of IV antimicrobial therapy were administered outpatient by OPAT-eCIP, with a median treatment course of 12 days. Eighty-three (92.2%) patients completed their antimicrobial course, with 85 (93.4%) cured of respective infections (Table 1). Antimicrobial-associated adverse events and PICC line associated complications were 6.6% and 14.3% respectively. 30-day hospital readmission rates were under 10% with 21 patients (23.1%, 28 total visits) presenting to the emergency room over the course of IV therapy. Estimated costs of OPAT-eCIP care over the study period ranged from &417,000-&576,750 with costs of equivalent inpatient care estimated at &2,945,250 to &3,927,000; estimated overall cost savings of OPAT-eCIP were &2,368,500 to &3,509,900 (Table 2).

Table 1. Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients Receiving Continuous IV Antibiotics via Disposable Elastomeric Pump

Table 2. Cost Analysis Comparison of OPAT-eCIP therapy versus inpatient antimicrobial therapy in patients from December 2018 from February 2021

Conclusion

OPAT-eCIP therapy in a cohort of patients was highly effective and well-tolerated. While ED visit frequency indicates the necessity of close patient monitoring, low 30-day hospital readmission rates were encouraging. Along with the above, the significant cost savings demonstrated when compared with standard inpatient antimicrobial therapy suggest that OPAT-eCIP should be increasingly utilized as an effective therapeutic option.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
130. Effects of COVID-19 on a Complex Behavioral Intervention to Improve the Diagnosis and Management of UTI in Nursing Homes
Authors: Ford James H , Jolles Sally , Heller Dee , Selle Katie , Uribe-Cano Daniela , Nordman-Oliveira Susan , Irvine Jessica , Coughlin DaRae , Crnich Christopher J
Published: December 2021

Background

Half of all urinary tract infections (UTI) are probably unnecessary. We conducted a cluster-randomized trial in which a toolkit to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of UTIs was introduced in study NHs via usual implementation versus an enhanced implementation approach based on external facilitation and peer comparison reporting.

Methods

Thirty Wisconsin NHs were randomized to each treatment arm in a 1.5:1 ratio. NHs used an online portal to report urine culture and antibiotic treatment data over a 6-month pre-intervention period (Jan-June 2019), a pre-COVID 8-month post intervention period (July 2019-Feb 2020) and an 8-month post-COVID intervention period (Mar-Oct 2020). Study outcomes included urine culture (UC), antibiotic start (AS), and antibiotic days of therapy (DOT) rates per 1,000 resident days. A generalized estimating equation model for panel data was used to assess differences in study outcomes between treatment arms before and after onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. STATA 16.1 was used for all analyses.

Results

A total of 802 UCs (457 pre-COVID, 345 post-COVID), 724 AS (401 pre-COVID, 323 post-COVID), and 6,454 DOT (3553 pre-COVID and 2901 post-COVID) were reported over the 16-month intervention period. No significant differences in the study outcomes were observed during the pre-COVID intervention period, however, UC rates in NHs assigned to the usual care arm of the study increased while those in the enhanced arm declined following onset of COVID-19 (Figure 1). AS and DOT rates followed a similar pattern although the differences between the study arms were not statistically significant.

Figure 1. Post Implementation Periods

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that NHs assigned to usual implementation regressed in their diagnosis and treatment of UTIs during the COVID-19 pandemic while those receiving external facilitation and peer comparison reports were more resilient to the effects of COVID-19.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures
131. A Pharmacist Led Antimicrobial Stewardship Pilot at Discharge Improves Outpatient Antibiotic Utilization
Authors: Hiryak Kayla , Kludjian Geena , Gallagher Jason C , Gallagher Jason C , Cavaretta Marissa
Published: December 2021

Background

The impact of antimicrobial stewardship programs has been well observed in institutional settings; however, patients complete over one-third of their antibiotic course after discharge. This creates a gap in stewardship efforts at transitions of care. We studied whether pharmacist review of antibiotic prescriptions at discharge would improve outpatient antibiotic prescribing.

Methods

This was a pilot project of patients in medicine wards of an academic medical center who were discharged on oral antibiotics between February and May 2021. Patients who were pregnant, <18 YO, had COVID-19, or leaving against medical advice were excluded from evaluation. For the pilot, a verification queue was created in the electronic health record (EHR) system where orders for discharge antibiotics were reviewed by investigator pharmacists before prescriptions were electronically sent to outpatient pharmacies. During the pilot, prescriptions were reviewed Monday-Friday afternoons from 12pm-4pm. Data was collected on incidence, type, and acceptance rate of pharmacist interventions, and a cost savings analysis was conducted with values calculated by the EHR system.

Results

There were 149 patients included with oral antibiotic prescriptions reviewed during the time frame. Of those patients, 48 (32.2%) had at least one prescription that was intervened on by a pharmacist. A total of 55 interventions were made with an acceptance rate of 76%. The median time for pharmacist review was 10 minutes (IQR 5-15). Patients who received infectious diseases (ID) consultation during admission required less intervention than patients without expert consultation but did not reach significance (8/35 and 47/114 respectively, p=0.07). The total cost savings associated with all interventions was &20,743.00.

Table 1. Interventions

Conclusion

Direct pharmacist review and intervention at discharge improved the prescribing of oral antibiotics within our institution during this pilot. Considering that this was conducted part-time in a subset of hospitalized patients during a limited time period, significant cost savings are possible with greater implementation.

Disclosures

Jason C. Gallagher, PharmD, FIDP, FCCP, FIDSA, BCPS, Astellas (Consultant, Speaker’s Bureau)Merck (Consultant, Grant/Research Support, Speaker’s Bureau)Qpex (Consultant)scPharmaceuticals (Consultant)Shionogi (Consultant) Jason C. Gallagher, PharmD, FIDP, FCCP, FIDSA, BCPS, Astellas (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Speakers’ bureau; Merck (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Consultant, Grant/Research Support; Nabriva: Consultant; Qpex (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Consultant; Shionogi (Individual(s) Involved: Self): Consultant Marissa Cavaretta, PharmD, Merck (Grant/Research Support)
132. Standardized Antimicrobial Administration Ratios to Guide Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: a Single Center Experience
Authors: Smoke Steven , Hasan Uzma , Steffen Eileen , Vangvanichyakorn Kamtorn
Published: December 2021

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is particularly challenging in the neonatal population. Both under- and overuse can negatively impact outcomes. There are limited reports of strategies to improve AMS in the neonatal population. Standardized Antimicrobial Administration Ratios (SAARs) are novel metrics of antimicrobial use, recently introduced for neonatal populations by the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). We describe our experience using SAARs to guide AMS in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted from January 2020 to April 2021. A team consisting of AMS and NICU department staff identified and implemented AMS strategies. Based on a review of NICU SAAR data, a goal was set to reduce third generation cephalosporin use by encouraging aminoglycoside use when appropriate. The pre-implementation period was January 2020 to May 2020 and the post-implementation period was July 2020 to April 2021. Antibiotic use was measured as SAARs and compared between study periods. The primary outcome was the neonatal SAAR for third generation cephalosporins. Secondary outcomes included SAARs for aminoglycosides and all neonatal antibacterial agents. SAARs were compared using the NHSN Statistics Calculator.

Results

For third generation cephalosporins, there were 385 observed antimicrobial days (OAD) and 115 expected antimicrobial days (EAD) in the pre-implementation period compared to 597 OAD and 228 EAD in the post implementation period. This resulted in a SAAR of 3.34 and 2.62, respectively; a reduction of 22% (p < 0.001). For aminoglycosides, there were 713 OAD and 584 EAD compared to 1617 OAD and 1155 EAD. This resulted in a SAAR of 1.22 and 1.4; an increase of 15% (p = 0.002). For all neonatal antibacterial agents, there were 2716 OAD and 1739 EAD compared to 5321 OAD and 3438 EAD. This resulted in a SAAR of 1.56 and 1.55; indicating no change in use (p = 0.70). See Table 1 for results.

Table 1. Antibiotic Use

Conclusion

While this initiative resulted in decreased use of third generation cephalosporins, this was not associated with a decrease in antibiotic use overall. Use of SAARs in the NICU may be helpful in both identifying opportunities to improve antibiotic use and monitoring antibiotic use over time.

Disclosures

Steven Smoke, PharmD, Karius (Advisor or Review Panel member) Shionogi (Scientific Research Study Investigator, Advisor or Review Panel member)