Role of rapid diagnostics for viral respiratory infections in antibiotic prescribing decision in the emergency department

Despite a diagnosis of Viral Respiratory Infections, one-fifth of Emergnecy Departments patients were prescribed antibiotics. Patient characteristics including age, duration of symptoms, abnormal chest X-rays, and specific diagnosis may increase provider concern for concurrent bacterial infections. Opportunities exist for antimicrobial stewardship strategies to incorporate rapid diagnostics in promoting judicious antibiotic usage in the Emergency Departments.