When documenting for an inter-facility transfer, what type of antibiotic history should be included?

Including the antibiotics used currently and those in the recent past is crucial for several reasons. Current antibiotic treatment provides immediate insight into the resident's ongoing care and specific infections being managed. It helps ensure continuity of care as the receiving facility needs to know what treatments have been initiated to avoid potential medication errors or treatment duplications.

Documenting recent antibiotic history is equally important as it can reveal patterns of antibiotic use that may indicate antibiotic resistance, treatment failures, or the potential for adverse effects related to discontinued medications. This information can guide further treatment decisions and inform healthcare providers about the resident’s microbiological exposure and any previous infections that may influence their current status.

A complete history encompassing both current and recent antibiotic use ensures that healthcare providers are making informed decisions based on the fullest picture of the resident’s medical background concerning antibiotic therapies. This focus improves the overall quality of care and infection control practices within the facility.