Pediatric Antibiotic Prescribing Practice Improved
A new quality initiative led to a shift toward shorter antibiotic prescriptions in pediatric urgent care centers across the U.S.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Children’s Health
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A study ending in September 2024 found that a quality improvement collaborative increased the use of shorter antibiotic prescriptions at 92 pediatric urgent care centers. The odds of receiving a prescription for seven days or fewer rose by 31% during the post-collaborative period.
Why it matters
Reducing the duration of antibiotic treatment is a key goal in stewardship efforts to combat resistance. The findings suggest that targeted interventions can successfully shift prescribing behaviors across multiple dimensions.
The study analyzed 257,859 encounters across 22 states and Washington, DC. Prescriptions of seven days or less for sinusitis increased significantly from 11.2% to 33.9%.
The players
Pediatric urgent care centers
These medical facilities provide immediate care for children and were the primary sites for this clinical quality study.
The details
The initiative supported culture change by reinforcing guideline awareness and addressing sociographic differences in antibiotic selection. Acute otitis media, or ear infections, accounted for 62% of the encounters involving antibiotics.
Timeline
The pre-collaborative study period occurred from April 2022 to September 2023.
The intervention study period took place from October 2023 to April 2024.
The post-collaborative study period concluded in September 2024.
Health Landscape
This initiative aligns with efforts to improve adherence to established clinical guidelines for acute respiratory infections. By moving toward shorter treatment durations, the study illustrates a broader trend of optimizing antibiotic use to preserve efficacy.
Parents may notice that providers are increasingly opting for shorter courses of antibiotics for common pediatric illnesses like sinusitis. This shift is designed to ensure children receive the minimum effective dose of medication, potentially reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
The takeaway
Clinicians and health systems can successfully change prescribing habits through structured quality improvement programs. Families can support these efforts by following recommended treatment durations even if symptoms improve quickly.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving standards in Children’s Health.
Live Poll
Do you support shorter antibiotic prescription courses to reduce potential over-exposure in your community?
