Implementation of beta-lactam antibiotic therapeutic drug monitoring in the critical care unit

The thesis examines how a personalised approach to administering beta-lactam (penicillin) antibiotics could improve their dosing in septic patients at risk of under or over dosing. It investigates the use of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), by measuring antibiotic blood levels to adjust doses. The research aims to show that TDM can lead improved antibiotic blood levels which are effective in treatment of serious infections. It assesses the practical aspects of using TDM in the critical care setting and provides a roadmap to its implementation.