Optimizing perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis: a prospective cohort study on cefazolin utilization in surgical patients with penicillin allergy labels.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Penicillin allergy labels frequently lead to second-line antibiotics for surgical prophylaxis, due to concerns for cross-reactivity. This has led to increased patient morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. The most common perioperative cephalosporin, cefazolin, has unique R groups, the main antigenic portion of penicillin, which makes it safe to use in type 1 hypersensitivity penicillin allergy. We evaluated the effect of education on the incidence of the following: cefazolin usage in penicillin allergy labelled patients, allergic reactions, and surgical site infections.

Methods

As a prospective study with historical controls, perioperative clinicians were educated on the natural history of penicillin allergy, cross-reactivity with c

SUBMITTER: Mensah C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12777054 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature