Optimizing utilization of beta-lactam surgical prophylaxis through implementation of a structured allergy assessment tool in a presurgical clinic

In patients with beta-lactam allergies, administration of non-beta-lactam surgical prophylaxis is associated with increased risk of infection. Although many patients self-report beta-lactam allergies, most are unconfirmed or mislabeled. A quality improvement process, utilizing a structured beta-lactam allergy tool, was implemented to improve the utilization of preferred beta-lactam surgical prophylaxis.