Evidence-based practice recommendations for infection prevention in pediatric sickle cell patients: Interventions for the primary care provider.

In this article, we provide pediatric primary care providers (PCPs) with evidence-based recommendations to reduce the risk of life-threatening bacterial infections in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Standard practice guidelines for SCD comprehensive care are lacking in comparison to other chronic diseases. There is a need for continued advocacy for quality healthcare for patients with SCD, including updated standard-of-care guidelines. As a result of these concerning inequities, PCPs and specialty providers are forced to reference and compare recommendations across several different health organizations to identify the best practice. PCPs should feel empowered to follow augmented immunization schedules in pediatric patients with SCD. Immunizations and proper antibiotics can be lifesaving against invasive meningococcal and pneumococcal infections. We outline opportunities for improving quality of care in pediatric patients with SCD for PCPs in the community.