The Use of Point-of-Care Tests and Multiplex PCR Tests in the Pediatric Emergency Department Reduces Antibiotic Prescription in Patients with Febrile Acute Respiratory Infections.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Acute Respiratory Infections are a common reason for Pediatric Emergency Department (PED) visits. Differentiating bacterial and viral infections may be challenging and might result in incorrect antibiotic prescriptions and exacerbation of antimicrobial resistance. This study evaluated the impact of new diagnostic tests in PED.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 4882 acute febrile respiratory infection cases presenting to the PED was analyzed, comparing two periods: Period 1 (October 2016-March 2017, n = 2181) and Period 2 (October 2023-March 2024, n = 2701). During Period 1, Group A Streptococcus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus rapid antigen detection tests were available. During Period 2, new point-of-care tests (POCTs), including rapid C-reactive pr

SUBMITTER: Pierantoni L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12735915 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature