Antibiotics should be administered within one hour of diagnosis

Antibiotics should be ‘broad spectrum’, covering all of the likely pathogens (Table 35.7)

Consider whether the infection is community acquired or healthcare associated, any previously known culture results and the patient's allergy status when selecting antimicrobials

The first dose should prescribed as a timed ‘stat’ and the need for urgent administration should be communicated to nursing staff

The indication for the antibiotics should be documented as well as a review and stop date

Antibiotics should be de-escalated as soon as it is safe to do so by narrowing the spectrum and converting to oral therapy