Date & Time of Session - 3/12/26 - from 12-1PM

Overview
Gram-positive bacteremia remains a common and high-risk infection associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Optimal management requires timely initiation of effective antimicrobial therapy, accurate identification of the causative organism, and appropriate determination of treatment duration. Despite published guidelines, considerable variability exists in real-world practice. This is due to evolving evidence, differing interpretations of uncomplicated versus complicated bacteremia, and emerging data supporting shorter or individualized treatment courses. Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to influence patient outcomes through interpretation of primary literature, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, and leadership in antimicrobial stewardship efforts. 

This presentation will address existing knowledge and practice gaps by reviewing current guideline recommendations and key primary literature related to antimicrobial selection and treatment duration for gram-positive bacteremia, with the goal of improving clinical decision-making, patient outcomes, and appropriate antibiotic use.

Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, the participant will be able to:
1. Evaluate empiric and targeted antimicrobial treatment options for gram-positive bacteremia based on organism, susceptibility patterns, and patient-specific factors.
2. Determine appropriate treatment durations for uncomplicated and complicated gram-positive bacteremia using current guidelines and evidence.
3. Identify key clinical factors (e.g., source control, repeat blood cultures, presence of endocarditis or metastatic infection) that influence antibiotic selection and duration.
4. Analyze key primary literature surrounding antimicrobial selection and treatment duration
5. Apply findings to clinical practice

Speakers
Carolyn Fitch, PharmD
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident
UofL Health – Louisville, Kentucky