Getting a Feel for Better Infection Control
Getting a Feel for Better Infection Control
For every 100 patients admitted to U.S. hospitals in 2002, 4.5 patients developed a nosocomial infection, also known as a hospital-acquired infection (HAI) (Graves & McGowan, 2008), and many experts believe the percentage has risen in recent years. Under new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines, healthcare providers may risk partial or full denial of reimbursement for procedures where staff medical errors such as infections arise from a lack of training.
Infection Control Showcase: Battling the Bugs
Infection Control Showcase
Battling the Bugs
Over seven months in 2010 there were more than 350 cases of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), according to a study by the Los Angeles County Department of Health.
Central Line Infections: Targeting Zero on an Oncology Unit
Central Line Infections: Targeting Zero on an Oncology Unit
A physician commented that he was concerned about central line care for his patients. While this is a common concern in many organizations, it was not acceptable in one that aspired to achieve performance at best practice levels.
Hand Hygiene Measurement and Education
Hand Hygiene Measurement and Education
Compliance improvement can be successful, sustained, and cost effective.
Hand hygiene (HH) is one of the most effective practices that all individuals in a healthcare facility who deliver healthcare services and have direct contact with the patient (healthcare worker, or HCW) can perform to help prevent the spread of infection among patients.
Cepheid Extends Rapid Molecular Diagnostics’ Leadership with FDA Clearance of Xpert Clostridium difficile/Epi
Sunnyvale, California, April 11, 2011—Cepheid announced that it has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its Xpert(R) C. difficile/Epi test. Cepheid’s first Xpert C. difficile test has been available in the United States since July 2009.