Audit of ticarcillan/clavulanate usage in a large teaching hospital

Aim: To assess compliance with ticarcillin/clavulanate prescribing guidelines, appropriateness of prescribing and to identify any patterns of inappropriate use that may aid in improving prescribing. Method: Patients on ticarcillin/clavulanate were prospectively reviewed over an 8-week period. Data collected included: demographics, diagnosis, hospital or community-acquired infection, specific bacteriology, type of treatment, dose, dose quantity, appropriateness of treatment, and compliance with guidelines. Results: 100 patients on ticarcillin/clavulanate were reviewed and 65% were compliant with guidelines. Treatment was considered appropriate in 76% of patients. Non-compliant/inappropriate usage was most commonly observed in community-acquired pneumonia. Conclusion: This audit indicated widespread use of ticarcillin/clavulanate outside hospital prescribing guidelines, although in some cases, use was considered appropriate.