Date Available

4-21-2018

Year of Publication

2018

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Committee Chair

Dr. Leslie Scott

Committee Member

Dr. Dianna Inman

Committee Member

Dr. Mary Kay Rayens

Abstract

Antibiotic over-prescribing by physicians for the treatment of acute respiratory tract illnesses have been examined in a variety of settings. Different studies have examined nurse practitioner (NP) prescribing practices both in the United States and various international settings. There have been limited studies specifically examining antibiotic prescribing practices in the pediatric population. However, no studies were found which compared population specific NP groups. The purpose of this study was to understand differences in antibiotic prescribing practices among advanced practice pediatric providers.

The goal of this project was to describe and compare antibiotic prescribing practices of pediatric nurse practitioners (PNP) and family nurse practitioners (FNP) in the management of acute pediatric illnesses in the primary care setting.

A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used to evaluate and compare prescribing practices of advanced practice pediatric providers to determine appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in various clinical situations. Survey data was analyzed and chi-square test for independence indicated no significant difference between PNP and FNP for appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing. However, analysis of individual vignettes indicated NPs did well on ear, nose and throat questions but not questions with other content. This may indicate a need for antibiotic stewardship continuing education in management of cough and genitourinary issues in young children.

In conclusion, advanced practice pediatric providers prescribe antibiotics similarly in the primary care setting.

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