Implementing a penicillin allergy assessment program

1. Download the guidelines and algorithm for the assessment and management of penicillin allergy (adults & children) from the ASCIA website:

• ASCIA guidelines for the assessment and management of adults and children with penicillin allergy

2. Complete the ASCIA health professional e-training courses, and pass the quizzes to receive your certificates:

• Drug (medication) allergy

• Assessment and management of patients with penicillin allergy

3. Download and print the following ASCIA resources that will guide communication, education and consent with your patients:

• ASCIA Antibiotic Allergy Challenges Consent Form

• ASCIA Clinical History Form - Adverse Reactions to Drugs (Medications)

• ASCIA Drug (Medication) Allergy Checklist - Patient and Carers

• Antibiotic allergy Challenged FAQ

4. Ensure that you are prepared to treat anaphylaxis in the rare event that it occurs. This includes having the correct equipment, medications and skills to do so. Complete the ASCIA Anaphylaxis e-training course:

• ASCIA Anaphylaxis e-training course: full course which takes around 1.5 hours to complete

• ASCIA Anaphylaxis e-training course (refresher): interim training which takes around 45-60 minutes to complete

5. Ensure that you have access to an allergy specialist for advice and support. One way you can do this is through the allergy assist® program which is available to all GPs and Rural Generalists in Australia:

• allergy assist®

Before the assessment, it is important to discuss the purpose, benefits and potential risks with your patient and obtain informed consent. Your patient and/or their parent or carer should understand what the assessment involves, including reviewing their allergy history and, where appropriate, undergoing an oral penicillin challenge. Ensure that your patient has had the opportunity to ask questions, understands the information you have provided and agrees to proceed before you commence the assessment.