American journal of infection control
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Am J Infect Control · Jun 2002
Comparative StudyUse of silver-hydrogel urinary catheters on the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for 40% of all nosocomial infections, and about 80% of these are associated with the use of urinary catheters. They not only contribute to excess morbidity and mortality, but they also significantly add to the cost of hospitalization. Clinical trials with silver-coated urinary catheters have shown conflicting results. However, recent trials with silver-hydrogel urinary catheters have shown a reduction in nosocomial UTIs, and these catheters appear to offer cost savings. ⋯ The use of silver-hydrogel urinary catheters resulted in a nonsignificant reduction in catheter-associated UTIs and a modest cost-saving.
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Am J Infect Control · Jun 2002
The impact of alcohol hand sanitizer use on infection rates in an extended care facility.
Nosocomial infections are a major problem in health care facilities, resulting in extended durations of care and substantial morbidity. Since alcohol gel hand sanitizers combine high immediate antimicrobial efficacy with ease of use, this study was carried out to determine the effect of the use of alcohol gel hand sanitizer by caregivers on infection types and rates in an extended care facility. ⋯ This study indicates that use of an alcohol gel hand sanitizer can decrease infection rates and provide an additional tool for an effective infection control program.