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AHRQ Research Studies
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Research Studies is a compilation of published research articles funded by AHRQ or authored by AHRQ researchers.
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1 to 1 of 1 Research Studies DisplayedUlrich RJ, McClung D, Wang BR
Introduction of procalcitonin testing and antibiotic utilization for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
This study measured the amount of procalcitonin testing (PCT) done for hospital inpatients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). PCT tests for presence of bacterial infection, which the majority of AECOPD inpatients did not have. Out of 238 AECOPD admissions, 31% had PCT performed. The patients who were tested were more likely to meet systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, require intensive-care unit (ICU)-level care, and have a longer length of stay compared with those not tested. However, testing was not associated with a decrease in total antibiotic days of therapy.
AHRQ-funded.
Citation: Ulrich RJ, McClung D, Wang BR .
Introduction of procalcitonin testing and antibiotic utilization for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Infect Dis 2019 Jun 12;12:1178633719852626. doi: 10.1177/1178633719852626..
Keywords: Antibiotics, Chronic Conditions, Respiratory Conditions, Medication