Publication
Title
Patient and primary care physician perceptions of penicillin allergy testing and subsequent use of penicillin containing antibiotics : a qualitative study
Author
Abstract
Background Removal of an inaccurate penicillin allergy record following testing allows patients to access first-line treatment for infections, and reduce use of broad spectrum antibiotics which contribute to antibiotic resistance. However, it is seldom undertaken. Objectives To identify clinicians working in primary care and patients views on barriers and enablers for penicillin allergy testing and subsequent antibiotic use. Methods Fifty interviews with patients and clinicians; including 31 patients with a record of penicillin allergy, 16 with experience of testing, and 19 clinicians. Interviews were analysed thematically. Results Patients were often unaware of the benefits of penicillin allergy testing and only patients who had experienced negative consequences of having a penicillin allergy label were motivated to get tested. Clinicians were reluctant to change patient records based on their clinical judgment alone but had limited experience of referring patients with suspected penicillin allergy and were often uncertain about referral criteria and what the testing involved. Clinicians felt allergy testing could be beneficial and patients who had attended testing reported benefits of the test. Clinicians expressed uncertainty related to whose responsibility it was to make sure that patient understood allergy test results. Conclusions Clinicians would benefit from information about penicillin allergy testing in order to be able to use these services appropriately, and to discuss referral with patients. Patients might be more motivated to seek testing if they were more informed regarding its benefits. Good communication between primary and secondary care would facilitate the updating of medical records, and promote better patient education.
Language
English
Source (journal)
The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice. - New York, NY, 2013, currens
Publication
New York, NY : Elsevier Inc , 2019
ISSN
2213-2198
DOI
10.1016/J.JAIP.2019.02.036
Volume/pages
7 :6 (2019) , p. 1888-1893
ISI
000473777600027
Pubmed ID
30877074
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 18.03.2019
Last edited 01.01.2025
To cite this reference