The Irrational Use of Antibiotics in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Besides their underlying diseases, patients in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), also have a high risk of developing secondary infections infections due to various procedures and the long length of stay. It has become a culture to give antibiotics to almost all patients who come to the PICU. The aim of this study is to assess the pattern and impact of the irrational use of antibiotics (both as empiric therapy, prophylaxis and definitive therapy), as well as to determine the role of biomarkers as a consideration for administering antibiotics to pediatric patients in the PICU. Irrational use of antibiotics in PICU still occurs all over the world, both as empiric therapy, prophylaxis and definitive therapy. This can have an impact on increasing the incidence of antibiotic resistance, extending the length of stay, increasing the economic burden on society, and worst of all, increasing the death rate due to infection. PCT and CRP, can help to differentiate the etiology, so they are useful guides for the initiation, de-escalation, or discontinuation of antibiotics. It is important to provide regular education to medical personnel regarding the protocol for administering antibiotics, including indications, types, doses and duration of administration. A written form can also be provided to assess the need for therapy using the Gyssens flowchart. In addition, cooperation from various parties is needed to carry out a comprehensive, sustainable management strategy to resolve this problem.