Gastro-intestinal

NHS Dumfries & Galloway Antimicrobial Handbook
NHS Dumfries and Galloway

Review previous microbiology results: If resistant target organisms previously isolated (e.g. MRSA, ESBL, known resistance to empirical antibiotic choices), discuss antibiotic choice with Paediatric and/or Microbiology Consultant.

User guide: for further advice regarding antimicrobial prescribing good practice, oral switch, penicillin allergy, dosing, and safety considerations: HERE

Gastroenteritis

Antibiotics are not usually required unless septic or systemically very unwell.
The risk of haemolytic uraemic syndrome is increased if antibiotics are given.
Discuss with Microbiology if concerns.

Comments

 

Intra-abdominal sepsis

First line

IV cefOTAXime 
and IV/PO metronidazole

Oral switch: co-amoxiclav

Penicillin allergy (severe)

IV gentamicin
and IV/PO clindamycin

Oral switch: ciprofloxacin and metronidazole

Total duration (IV + PO)
  • Depends on underlying diagnosis, surgical management, and clinical response to treatment. 

Clostridioides difficile Infection ("C. diff")

Comments
  • The Scottish guidance on Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), published by Scottish Health Protection Network, is available: HERE
  • The Scottish Antimicrobial Prescribing Group (SAPG) and Paediatric Stewardship Steering Group (PSSG) made updated treatment recommendations in June 2022:
      • Full document: HERE
      • Decision toolkit: HERE

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 20/02/2024

Next review date: 20/02/2026

Author(s): Dr Jon van Aartsen (Consultant Microbiologist), Dr Jed Bamber (Consultant Paediatrician).

Version: v1.0

Approved By: AMT (20.02.2024) and ADTC (28.02.2024)

Reviewer name(s): Dr Jed Bamber (Consultant Paediatrician), AMS Team.