The Journal of hospital infection
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Needlestick injuries (NSIs) are one of the most common health hazards facing healthcare workers (HCWs) across the globe. Needles with safety engineered devices (SEDs) have been developed to minimize the risk of exposure to blood-borne infections, such as hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus, associated with NSIs. ⋯ The application of SEDs has not led to a reduction in NSIs. The majority of NSIs caused by a needle with an SED can be prevented by stimulation of safe needle disposal, proper use of SEDs, and provision of feedback to manufacturers to keep improving product design.
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Regimens containing topical polymyxin appear to be more effective in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) than other methods. ⋯ The mean incidence of AAVAP within the control groups of studies of topical polymyxin is more than double the benchmark, whereas the incidence rates within the groups of non-polymyxin studies and, paradoxically, polymyxin intervention groups are more similar to the benchmark. These incidence rates, which are paradoxical in the context of an apparent effect against VAP within controlled trials of topical polymyxin-based interventions, force a re-appraisal.
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Observational Study
Adherence to contact precautions by different types of healthcare workers through video monitoring in a tertiary hospital.
Contact precautions are required to prevent transmission of multi-drug-resistant organisms; however, reports on adherence rates vary. This study used video monitoring to evaluate adherence to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by different types of healthcare workers. ⋯ Video monitoring is a useful tool for monitoring adherence to PPE use, facilitating observation of more PPE opportunities than direct observation. Adherence to contact precautions varied by occupation; however, overall adherence was insufficient. The lower adherence rate in nurses might be due to more frequent care visits.