De-labeling of β-lactam allergy reduces intraoperative time and optimizes choice in antibiotic prophylaxis

Using this three step process, almost all of those claiming penicillin allergy were de-labeled. In most patients that were drug challenged, β-lactam antibiotics became the perioperative drug of choice. In cases where oral challenge was not used in the assessment only 50% were given a β-lactam. The reduced use of vancomycin minimized delays in initiation of incision time, thus improving operative efficiency. Ultimately, randomized controlled studies are required to objectively determine the effectiveness of this approach.