Implementation of a penicillin allergy protocol improves surgical outcomes

A penicillin allergy protocol significantly enhanced the use of β-lactam prophylaxis in patients undergoing open abdominal wall reconstruction. Following protocol implementation, surgical site infections, wound complications, reoperations, and readmissions decreased. Of the 315 patients identified, 250 were treated pre-protocol and 65 post-protocol, with the latter group showing improved outcomes despite comparable demographics. The initiative’s success led to its integration into the electronic medical records of 13 hospitals, supporting broader adoption in surgical practices.