Randomised controlled trial of intravenous antibiotic treatment for cellulitis at home compared with hospital.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To compare the efficacy, safety, and acceptability of treatment with intravenous antibiotics for cellulitis at home and in hospital.

Design

Prospective randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Christchurch, New Zealand.

Participants

200 patients presenting or referred to the only emergency department in Christchurch who were thought to require intravenous antibiotic treatment for cellulitis and who did not have any contraindications to home care were randomly assigned to receive treatment either at home or in hospital.

Main outcome measures

Days to no advancement of cellulitis was the primary outcome measure. Days on intravenous and oral antibiotics, days in hospital or in the home care programme, complications, degree of functioning and pain, and

SUBMITTER: Corwin P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC544431 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature