The Journal of hospital infection
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Surveillance programmes have become the most effective tool for controlling catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). However, few studies have investigated programmes covering all hospital settings. ⋯ The CRBSI control and prevention programme implemented at the study hospital has decreased the rate of CRBSI, provided important information about the total burden of disease, and revealed possible ways to improve interventions in the future.
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Data supporting active surveillance of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) for the prevention of postoperative infection remain controversial. ⋯ MRSA SSIs were prevented by a screening-based strategy in pre-operative MRSA carriers. Postoperative nasal acquisition was a significant factor affecting MRSA infection, and the effect of screening varied according to the incidence of postoperative MRSA acquisition on the ward.
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Tablet computers are increasingly used in healthcare, but they may carry nosocomial pathogens. There are few data available on how to clean an iPad effectively for use in the clinical setting. ⋯ Sani-Cloth CHG 2% wipes effectively disinfect the iPad against MRSA and VRE, with a residual antibacterial effect and without causing damage.
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Between December 2010 and April 2012, intensive care unit (ICU) patients in our hospital were infrequently colonized with extended-spectrum β-lactamase-positive bacteria (ESBLs). We hypothesized that these ESBLs originated from patients' room sinks, and this was prospectively investigated by weekly culturing of patients and sinks during a 20-week period. ⋯ One of these patients died of pneumonia caused by the ESBL. Transmission from sinks to patients was stopped by integrating self-disinfecting siphons to all sinks on the ICU.
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Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) remains an infection control challenge, especially when environmental spore contamination and suboptimal cleaning may increase transmission risk. ⋯ HPD, after deep cleaning with a detergent/chlorine agent, was highly effective for removing environmental C. difficile contamination. Long-term follow-up demonstrated that a CDI symptomatic patient can rapidly recontaminate the immediate environment. Determining a role for HPD should include long-term cost-effectiveness evaluations.