The Journal of hospital infection
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Do cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced leukopenia benefit from an antiseptic chlorhexidine-based oral rinse? A double-blind, block-randomized, controlled study.
Patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy frequently suffer from mucositis, particularly if they become leukopenic (leucocytes <1000/microL). To identify a possible benefit from antiseptic rinsing of the oral cavity, 47 patients were randomized to rinse either with a chlorhexidine-based product (chlorhexidine concentration 0.3%; N=24) or with an amine-stannous fluoride combination (control group; N=23). Patients were asked to rinse three times a day for 30s from the beginning of chemotherapy until the end of leukopenia. ⋯ Other parameters such as body temperature or application of antibiotics did not differ between the two groups. We conclude that treatment with the chlorhexidine-based product did not provide a clinical benefit for cancer chemotherapy patients. On the contrary, the risk of mucositis and clinical sequelae seems to be enhanced, although the counts of micro-organisms on the oral mucous membranes are significantly reduced.
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Because of a high prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, we conducted an epidemiological study to assess the need for systematic surveillance, as well as the value of applying barrier precautions toP. aeruginosa carriers. From July 1997 to February 1998, we conducted a prospective cohort study in an 18-bed medical intensive care unit (ICU), which is part of the infectious diseases department in a 1200-bed tertiary-care teaching hospital. Rectal and oropharyngeal swabs were obtained on admission and twice weekly. ⋯ In a multivariate model, mechanical ventilation was associated with the acquisition of P. aeruginosa carriage. Antibiotics ineffective against P. aeruginosa significantly increased the risk of colonization or infection in ICU. Although several recent studies concluded that endogenous sources account for the majority of P. aeruginosa colonizations or infections, we conclude that epidemiology may vary according to the ICU, and that cross-colonization (i.e., exogenous source) may occur and warrant reinforced barrier precautions.
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The purpose of guidelines is to improve the quality of care for patients and improve clinical effectiveness by implementation of evidence-based care in daily practice. However, the potential of guidelines for resolving clinical questions should not be overstated. Ideally, policy makers use input from research data, as well as current prescribing habits, when developing guidelines. ⋯ Beside the quality of guidelines, efforts are necessary for an effective implementation into daily practice. Many studies have shown that a combination of different interventions is needed. Thereby, an investigation of possible barriers should be an essential part of any strategy.