ANTIMICROBIAL GUIDANCE
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Aztreonam shortage - please see aztreonam shortage memo June 2024 (Intranet access required)
June 2024 Latest Guideline Updates:
- AMT157 Bronchiectasis update: link added to new diagnosis and management section published in therapeutics section
- AMT158 Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) update: separate COVID-19 co-infection recommendations removed or merged, duration reduced to 5 days unless clinically unstable, reminder that duration is IV plus oral.
- AMT162 Bites update: more detail on when prophylaxis or treatment is recommended along with duration - 3 days for prophylaxis and 5 days for treatment
- AMT163 Cellulitis/Wound Infections update: duration reduced to 5 days and link added to OPAT pathway for admission avoidance or referral
- AMT168 Impetigo update: aligned with NICE and CKS with addition of hydrogen peroxide cream as first line. Recommendations stratified according to severity with topical for non-severe infections and systemic (oral) for severe infections. Short update in next Formulary Update
- AMT169 Leg Ulcer update: text updated to focus on cleansing wounds, taking samples after cleaning and from areas of infection and only treating infections as cellulitis when there are clear signs and symptoms.
- AMT171 Scabies update: added link to British Association of Dermatology expert guidance on management, including patient information leaflet on optimal application of topical therapy
- TAM456 Mastitis and breast abscess update: new advice on management of lactational mastitis (linked to NHS policy) and lowering of clindamycin dose.
Guidance reviewed with no changes:
- AMT116 Eradication of Helicobacter pylori
- AMT146 Bone and Joint Infections
- AMT170 Necrotising Fasciitis
How to access antimicrobial advice: see here.
Further information regarding COVID-19: see here.
Access the NHS Highland and Western Isles Antimicrobial website and mobile app for the:
- Gentamicin calculator
- Vancomycin calculators Not for use in patients on dialysis - Refer to Renal Unit Guidance.