The Feasibility and Applicability of Pediatric Inpatient Beta Lactam
De-Labeling: From Bedside Challenge to Follow Up on Patient Chart
Documentation
Abstract
Background. Beta-lactam allergy (BLA) labels are common in
pediatric patients, but are often inaccurate, leading to unnecessary use
of second line antibiotics. While direct oral challenge tests (OCTs) are
effective for de-labeling, their incorporation in pediatric inpatient
setting remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the
feasibility of implementing an inpatient pediatric BLA de-labeling
program. Methods. A prospective study conducted in a pediatric
ward involved inpatients undergoing a 2-step graded OCT. In-house
pediatricians completed surveys to assess beliefs and barriers regarding
inpatient OCT implementation. Follow-up included caregiver surveys and
review of hospital and Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) electronic
medical records (EMRs). Results. Of 192 eligible BLA-labeled
patients, 32 (16.6%) were recruited, 93.8% carrying an amoxicillin
allergy label and the vast majority without other drug allergy labels.
All patients had a history of a mild reaction, 100% presented with a
benign rash. 30/32 (93.4%) had a negative OCT. Pediatricians faced
challenges such as workload pressures, staff shortages and
overestimation of severe reaction risks, all serving as barriers for
patient recruitment. At follow-up (median 37 months), 35.7% of
caregivers reported de-labeling, while EMRs documented higher rates
(HMO: 80%l; hospital: 70%). Despite successful OCTs, gaps in caregiver
understanding and pediatrician support persisted. Conclusions.
While direct OCTs are proved to be effective in de-labeling BLA,
significant challenges persist in implementing inpatient de-labeling and
ensuring their long-term success. These include low recruitment rates,
pediatricians’ misconceptions and incomplete integration into EMRs.
Addressing these barriers requires targeted education, improved
communication and streamlined processes to improve de-labeling outcomes
and support antibiotic stewardship.