Continuous Infusion Vancomycin Through the Addition of Vancomycin to the Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy Solution in the PICU: A Case Series

Abstract

Objectives: To describe our experience with achieving therapeutic serum vancomycin concentrations in pediatric continuous renal replacement therapy by using continuous infusion vancomycin by mixing vancomycin into the continuous renal replacement therapy solution.

Design: Retrospective chart review.

Setting: A 189-bed, freestanding children's tertiary care teaching hospital in Philadelphia, PA.

Patients: Pediatric patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy from April 1, 2009, through December 31, 2014.

Interventions: None.

Measurements and main results: There were a total of 21 patients who received continuous renal replacement therapy during the study period. Of these, 11 (52.3%) received vancomycin in the continuous renal replacement therapy solution. The median (range) concentration of vancomycin added to the continuous renal replacement therapy solution was 25 mg/L (18-35 mg/L). The mean vancomycin plateau level was 22.8 ± 3.3 mg/L. All patients achieved a serum vancomycin plateau level that was greater than 15 mg/L. There were no adverse events related to the addition of vancomycin to the continuous renal replacement therapy solution.

Conclusions: The addition of vancomycin to the continuous renal replacement therapy solution(s) is an effective modality that is used for delivering vancomycin continuous infusion and for ensuring therapeutic vancomycin serum plateau levels in the setting of pediatric continuous renal replacement therapy. Further studies are required to evaluate whether this delivery method can lead to improved patient outcomes.