High prescribing rates of third-generation cephalosporins in children hospitalized with acute lower respiratory infections at a university hospital

ObjectiveAntibiotics are frequently prescribed for the treatment of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) in children ≤5 years age, even though viral aetiologies most common. The aim this study was to describe antibiotic prescribing rates and patterns age hospitalized with ALRI.MethodsA retrospective conducted involving patients aged 1 month 5 ALRI at a university hospital. Patient demographics, diagnosis, microbiological data, antibiotics prescribed, outcomes were recorded analysed.ResultsA total 1283 enrolled. Their median 1.6 (interquartile range 0.8–2.8 years). Thirty-six percent had co-morbidity. diagnosis discharge 81% bacterial pneumonia 19%. mortality rate 0.4%. overall 46% (95% confidence interval 43–49%). Antibiotic higher among co-morbidities (65% vs 35%, p < 0.001) older (57% >2–5 39% ≤2 years, 0.001). Parenteral third-generation cephalosporins up 68% all prescriptions.ConclusionsNearly-half antibiotics. majority cephalosporins. An antimicrobial stewardship programme guidelines should be implemented promote judicious use