1101. What Do Electrophysiologists Think about Peri-Procedural Antibiotics? A Qualitative Assessment of Factors Driving Use and Facilitators for Implementing Change

BACKGROUND: Prolonged courses of antimicrobials are common following cardiac device procedures, but there are little data to explain drivers of this practice and factors that may facilitate change. METHODS: We conducted formative evaluations consisting of semi-structured, qualitative interviews with electrophysiologists (EP) to identify perceived barriers to discontinuing post-procedure antimicrobial prophylaxis and factors that may facilitate improvements. A directed content analysis approach was used to map qualitative responses to key factors in the Proctor Implementation Outcomes Framework, with flexibility to allow for new themes to emerge. Interviews ceased after data saturation was reached. RESULTS: 13 interviews were conducted with EPs representing diverse US regions (Northeast, Midwest, South, West) and diverse settings of care (academic, community, VA). Responses to questions about antimicrobial use and willingness (or lack thereof) to stop post-procedural antimicrobials most commonly mapped to the acceptability domain; feasibility, fidelity, cost and appropriateness were also frequently identified factors (see figure for exemplary quotes). Themes that emerged during the interview process associated with prolonged antimicrobial prescribing included beliefs and knowledge, local culture and normative behaviors, and organizational structure. There was a strong “cultural inertia” to conform to normative practices within an institution. Reasons for this ranged from reports of streamlining processes for clinical staff to ensure standardized care across all patients and concerns about being perceived as an “outlier.” Infectious diseases staff were important influencers of practice and potential facilitators of improvement. CONCLUSION: Formative evaluations of stakeholders are essential for designing successful implementation interventions to facilitate behavioral change. Local culture appeared to be a major driver of antimicrobial use. The desire to conform to normative behaviors and to promote institutional standardization suggests that strategies to facilitate implementation of antimicrobial stewardship guidelines must include facility-level changes, rather than individual-provider-level interventions. [Image: see text] DISCLOSURES: All authors: No reported disclosures.