Implementation of a Pharmacist-Led Penicillin Allergy Interview at a Veterans Care Facility

Background: Evaluating a patient's β-lactam allergy involves a thorough review of electronic health records (EHRs), penicillin skin test, and observed oral challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led penicillin allergy delabeling solely through an interview using the Allergy to β-Lactam Evaluation (ABLE) process. Methods: This single-facility, retrospective cohort study reviewed EHR notes. Patient eligibility for allergy profile modifications was determined using guidance from the ABLE process. Interviews were conducted with patients meeting inclusion criteria. A progress note was entered into the EHR following completion of the interview. Patients were compared to a historical control group and matched for allergy severity (immunoglobulin E [IgE]-mediated allergy, unknown, adverse drug reaction [ADR], and severe cutaneous or other non-IgE-mediated reaction). The primary outcome was the number of patient allergy ADRs that were removed or changed on their profile. Results: < .03). Conclusions: The study findings support the use of the ABLE process for penicillin allergy/ADR modification or clarification. Although the sample size was small, the ABLE process has the ability to positively impact individuals with inappropriate penicillin allergy documentation in the EHR.