Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy Selection

Is the patient being evaluated for outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy?

Is the diagnosis well-defined with predictable prognosis?

Is the infection is stabilized and nonprogressive?

Is there an indication for immediate surgery?

Is the selected therapy with a safe antibiotic that can be dosed conveniently with a regimen that is not overly complicated?

Is the patient afebrile with stable vital signs?

If other medical conditions are present, are they stable?

Is the patient incapacitated by pain, immobility, cardiopulmonary disease or other condition?

Are all other treatments are manageable outside of the hospital?

Is the patient a suitable candidate based on the judgment of an experienced physician?

Is reliable venous access available?

Are the patient and caregivers willing?

Are the patient and caregivers compliant with the instructions?

Do they have sufficient mental acuity?

Do they possess sufficient visual and auditory acuity?

Do they have sufficient manual dexterity and strength?

Do they have the psychosocial resources needed?

Do they misuse drugs or alcohol?

Do they live in an environment conducive to the therapy over the time period required?

Do they have access to a telephone and means of transportation?

Do they have ready access to health care resources if problems arise?

Does the patient have a support system sufficient for the needs of the program?