Penicillin Allergy label - the unmet needs - causes and potential solutions

Abstract

Penicillin allergy is the most prevalent drug allergy. Its overdiagnosis has been associated with inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, increased antimicrobial resistance, worse clinical outcomes, and increased healthcare costs. Methods:403 inpatients were audited against National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) Clinical Guidance 183 (CG183) on diagnosis, investigations, documentation, and management of penicillin allergy. 50 junior doctors were surveyed to explore barriers to best practice, investigating their knowledge of, and confidence using the NICE CG183 guidelines. Their views on potential solutions were also explored.