Cascade Reporting

A is growing Pseudomonas aeruginosa with this susceptibility:

Cefepime = S
Piperacillin/tazobactam = S
Meropenem = S
Ciprofloxacin = R

Is IMIPENEM susceptible?

A. Yes
B. No
C. Maybe? Call lab

How did others respond?

Reveal the answer

Best Answer

Maybe? Call lab 📞

Explanation: Many labs use cascade reporting, where not all antibiotics tested are reported on the susceptibility report. Meropenem & imipenem DO NOT always have the same activity so don’t assume it’s susceptible here!

AVOID assuming susceptibility for any antibiotics NOT LISTED on susceptibility reports and CHECK with microbiology staff to ensure an antibiotic is active ✅