Impact of the implementation of a rapid meningitis/encephalitis multiplex polymerase chain reaction panel on IV acyclovir duration: multicenter, retrospective cohort of adult and pediatric patients.

The standard for diagnosing meningoencephalitis includes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture and viral polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Approval of the FilmArray® BioFire® Meningitis/Encephalitis (ME) panel has reduced time to detection of several pathogens and improved diagnostic sensitivity. The objective of this study was to determine the impact on intravenous (IV) acyclovir duration of the ME panel compared to previously utilized CSF studies within a large health system with a central laboratory.

Decreasing Exposure to Radiation, Surgical Risk, and Costs for Pediatric Complicated Pneumonia: A Guideline Evaluation.

Objectives: This report describes the creation and successful implementation of a complicated pneumonia care algorithm at our institution. Outcomes are measured for specific goals of the algorithm: to decrease radiation exposure, surgical risk, and patient charges without adversely affecting clinical outcomes.

Methods: We describe steps involved in algorithm creation and implementation at our institution.

Comparison of Intravenous Palivizumab and Standard of Care for Treatment of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Mechanically Ventilated Pediatric Patients.

Objectives: Evidence suggests palivizumab may be beneficial for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in pediatric patients, although it is only approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for RSV prophylaxis. The objective of this study is to compare outcomes among pediatric patients with RSV infection who received intravenous palivizumab and standard of care versus standard of care alone.

Methods: This is a retrospective, single-center cohort study conducted between November 2003 and October 2013.