@article{mbs:/content/journal/jmm/10.1099/jmm.0.000676, author = "Mitchell, Stephanie L. and Chang, Yeh-Chung and Feemster, Kristen and Cárdenas, Ana María", title = "Implementation of a rapid influenza A/B and RSV direct molecular assay improves emergency department oseltamivir use in paediatric patients", journal= "Journal of Medical Microbiology", year = "2018", volume = "67", number = "3", pages = "358-363", doi = "https://doi.org/10.1099/jmm.0.000676", url = "https://www.microbiologyresearch.org/content/journal/jmm/10.1099/jmm.0.000676", publisher = "Microbiology Society", issn = "1473-5644", type = "Journal Article", keywords = "influenza virus", keywords = "oseltamivir", keywords = "emergency department", keywords = "Simplexa Flu/RSV", abstract = " Purpose. Influenza A virus (FluA), influenza B virus (FluB) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) illnesses increase hospitalizations during seasonal epidemics. Methodology. To determine the utility of the Simplexa FluA/B & RSV Direct Assay (Direct Flu/RSV) and its impact on oseltamivir use, we offered this assay to emergency department (ED) patients with influenza-like illness. Results. Utilization of the Direct Flu/RSV provided a turnaround time (TAT) of 2 hours. Compared to the flu season prior to implementation of the Direct Flu/RSV, clinicians were more likely to prescribe 5 days of oseltamivir therapy for Direct Flu/RSV-positive patients in comparison to those with a negative test. Conclusions. Use of Direct Flu/RSV provides results rapidly, which leads to more appropriate use of oseltamivir. The ease of use of this assay and quick TAT allows for prompt decision-making, which is essential for patient care and effective disease control during the influenza season.", }