Point prevalence audit surveys of respiratory tract infection consultations and antibiotic prescribing in primary care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are the most common reason for prescribing antibiotics in general practice. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on antibiotic prescribing and delivery of primary care in Ireland.

Objectives

To assess the quality of antibiotic prescribing, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and identify opportunities for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in Ireland.

Methods

Point prevalence audit surveys for RTI consultations were conducted as part of a European study at three time periods: January-February 2020, March-May 2020 and March-May 2021. Antibiotic prescribing was assessed and comparisons made between the three time periods.

Results

In total, 765 consultations were recorded, which were mainly face to face before the pandemic

SUBMITTER: Shah M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10154125 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature