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Patients with congenital heart defects are a unique population with generally immature immune systems. Fragility in the postoperative period may contribute to surgical site infections (SSIs), a life threatening complication for this population. The need for postoperative antimicrobial prophylaxis for these patients is a standard of care that is indisputable. When choosing an antimicrobial regimen for surgical prophylaxis, consideration should be given to balancing the prevention of nosocomial infections, avoiding emergence of bacterial resistance, and minimizing drug toxicities and cost.
This is a post-print version of an article originally published in American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy,2008, Volume 65.. The version of record is available at AJHP. Archived with permission from American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, all rights reserved.
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/chad_knoderer/2/