Pre-hospital administration of antibiotics by paramedics for suspected cases of meningococcal disease
Mundy L, Merlin T
Record ID 32006001413
English
Authors' results and conclusions:
The supply of antibiotics in ambulances for administration by paramedics would appear to be a simple and relatively cheap program that has the potential to save lives. There is good evidence to support the pre-hospital parenteral administration of antibiotics to patients suspected of having meningococcal disease. The level of evidence supporting the introduction of such a policy however is poor as only anecdotal evidence suggests that this policy is effective. The potential risk of anaphylactic shock would need to be considered, along with the availability of adrenalin to prevent such sequelae.
Authors' recommendations:
A policy of antibiotic administration by paramedics is being implemented by the majority of jurisdictions in Australia. As a result, it is recommended that the technology be archived.
Details
Project Status:
Completed
Year Published:
2006
URL for published report:
Not Available
English language abstract:
An English language summary is available
Publication Type:
Not Assigned
Country:
Australia
MeSH Terms
- Drug Utilization
- Emergency Medical Services
- Hospitalization
- Anti-Bacterial Agents
- Meningococcal Infections
Contact
Organisation Name:
Adelaide Health Technology Assessment
Contact Address:
School of Public Health, Mail Drop 545, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, AUSTRALIA, Tel: +61 8 8313 4617
Contact Name:
ahta@adelaide.edu.au
Contact Email:
ahta@adelaide.edu.au
Copyright:
Adelaide Health Technology Assessment (AHTA)
This is a bibliographic record of a published health technology assessment from a member of INAHTA or other HTA producer. No evaluation of the quality of this assessment has been made for the HTA database.