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Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are frequent adverse outcomes of medical care. The HAI burden in low- and middle-income countries is much higher and associated with more severe outcomes. The Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model provides a framework that can be used to identify barriers and facilitators of infection control practices and evaluate interactions between structures, processes, and outcomes. A qualitative study was done to evaluate the implementation of effective infection control practices at Jimma University Hospital in Jimma, Ethiopia. Twenty-two semi-structured interviews of hospital employees, selected by convenience sampling, were conducted to assess the five components of SEIPS framework: person, physical environment, tasks, organization and tools. The interviews were transcribed, coded for themes, and analyzed using the software Dedoose (Version 8.0.42 SocioCultural Research Consultants, Los Angeles, CA). Staff overwhelmingly reported a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) as a barrier to adequate infection prevention and control (IPC) practices but cited poor supply chain management versus financial resources as the cause. Most interviewees also noted unreliable water availability as an impediment for hand hygiene. Prominent facilitators of effective IPC included a manageable workload, sufficient budget, and positive individual attitude towards improving IPC. The major barriers were identified as an inconsistent and incomplete training program for employees, a lack of IPC policies, and a nurse rotation program that increases unit staff turnover. Interventions designed to address the identified barriers include developing IPC policies and protocols, regularly scheduled IPC training, and establishing an HAI surveillance program to better identify IPC trends and track progress. Innovative interventions are needed to improve IPC practices, such as faculty training on supply chain management and utilization of simple local resources to increase hand washing practices.

Modifiable risk-factors associated withEvaluate epidemiology, risk-factors and outcomes after CDI occurring in the first 90 days after RTX (CDI-90).982 patients met inclusion criteria; 46 with CDI-90 and 936 without (comparator). CDI incidence in the total population was 4.7% at 90 days, 6.3% at 1 year, and 6.4% at 3 years. Incidence of CDI-90 was 5%; time to diagnosis was 19.4±25 days (median 7). Risk-factors for CDI-90 were alemtuzumab induction (Hazard ratio [HR] 1.5, 95% CI(1.1-2.0),Incidence of CDI-90 is low, mostly occurring in the first post-operative month. Risk-factors vary temporally based on time from transplant. In the early post-op period induction agent and age at transplant are significant, but not after. Associations between CDI and negative graft outcomes appear to be largely driven by age. Future studies validating these risk-factors as well as targeted prophylaxis strategies and their effect on long term graft outcomes and the host microbiome are needed.

Background: Gram-negative bacteria cause a variety of hospital-associated infections (HAIs). Of concern is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is a leading cause of HAIs. Early and adequate therapy of P. aeruginosa blood stream infection (BSI) is associated with decreased mortality. Additionally, infectious disease consultation has also shown to improve health outcomes, streamline care, and decrease costs. Therefore, the goal of this study was to describe treatment of P. aeruginosa BSI and impact of infectious disease consultations on health outcomes. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed national VA medical, encounter, pharmacy, microbiology, and laboratory data from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2018. The cohort included all hospitalized adult veterans (aged ≥18 years) who had a positive blood culture for P. aeruginosa. Only the first P. aeruginosa blood culture per patient was included, and duplicate cultures within 30 days were removed. Treatment was identified within −2 to +5 days of the culture date. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) cultures were identified based on resistance to at least 1 agent in at least 3 or more antimicrobial categories tested. Multivariable logistic regression models were fit to assess infectious disease consultations and adequate treatment on in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality. Results: In total, 3,256 patients had a BSI with P. aeruginosa, of which 386 (11.5%) were MDR. Most of these patients were male (97.5%), >65 years of age (70.9%), and non-Hispanic white (63.8%). Also, 784 patients (23.3%) died during hospitalization and 870 (25.8%) died within 30 days of their culture. In multivariable regression models, infectious disease consultations were associated with decreased odds of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53–0.77) and 30-day mortality (OR, 0.56, 95% CI, 0.48–0.67) even after adjusting for age, race, care setting, Charlson score, and prior healthcare exposures. Furthermore, inadequate definitive treatment was associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.35–5.69) and 30-day mortality (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.18–4.79), even after adjusting for age, Charlson score, care setting, and prior healthcare exposures. In addition, carbapenem treatment was associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.12–1.70) and 30-day mortality (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.22–1.81), whereas fluoroquinolone treatment was associated with lower odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.41–0.59) and 30-day mortality (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.50–0.71). Finally, extended-spectrum cephalosporin was also associated with lower odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.68–0.98). Conclusions: Use of infectious disease consultations and any adequate definitive treatment for those with P. aeruginosa BSI lowered odds of in-hospital and 30-day mortality. Early consultation with infectious disease physicians regarding adequate treatment has direct positive impact on clinical outcomes for patients with P. aeruginosa BSI.Funding: NoDisclosures: None

Background: Infections caused by Acinetobacter spp are often healthcare acquired and associated with high mortality. Extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Acinetobacter are nonsusceptible to at least 1 agent in all but 2 or fewer antibiotic classes. Few of the new antibiotics targeting multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria are effective against XDR Acinetobacter. Recent national guidelines for treatment of resistant gram-negative infections do not include Acinetobacter, leaving a knowledge gap in best practices. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included microbiology, clinical, and pharmacy data from all patients hospitalized between 2012 and 2018 at any Veterans’ Affairs medical center who had cultures that grew XDR Acinetobacter spp. Bivariate unadjusted analyses compared clinical outcomes by monotherapy versus combination therapy. Using mixed-effects ordinal logistic regression, propensity score–adjusted models accounting for severity of illness and other variables associated with treatment were fit to compare outcomes. Results: Of 11,546 patients with 15,364 cultures that grew Acinetobacter spp, 408 patients (3.5%) had 666 cultures (4.3%) with XDR Acinetobacter. Moreover, 276 of these patients (67.6%) had gram-negative targeted antibiotic treatment within −2 to +5 days from the culture. Furthermore, 118 patients (42.8%) received monotherapy, most commonly piperacillin-tazobactam (n = 54, 45.7%) or an anti-Pseudomonas cephalosporin (n = 21, 17.8%). Also, 158 (57.2%) patients received combination therapy, most commonly a carbapenem (n = 93, 58.9%) and/or polymyxin (n = 68, 43.0%). Moreover, 41 patients (25.9%) received both a carbapenem and polymyxin. In both unadjusted and adjusted analyses, there were no significant differences in the odds of 30-day mortality (aOR, 1.43; 95% CI, 0.86–2.38) or 1-year mortality (aOR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.68–1.60) between combination therapy and monotherapy groups. Among 264 patients (96%) whose cultures occurred during an inpatient or long-term care admission, unadjusted analyses showed increased odds of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.08–3.29) and longer postculture length of stay in the combination therapy group: median, 23 days (IQR, 11–57) versus 14 days (IQR, 7–32) (P = .02). However, with propensity score adjustment, these associations were no longer significant. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in odds of 90-day readmission between groups in either unadjusted or adjusted analyses (aOR, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.74–1.95). Conclusions: In this large national cohort of patients with XDR Acinetobacter cultures, more patients received combination therapy than monotherapy, and carbapenems and polymyxins were the most-used classes. However, there were no significant differences in outcomes between patients receiving combination therapy and monotherapy, suggesting lack of clinical benefit to the common practice of treating XDR Acinetobacter infections with multiple antibiotics. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment strategies for this pathogen.Funding: NoDisclosures: None

Background Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis and surgical technological advances have greatly reduced, but not totally eliminated surgical site infection (SSI) posthysterectomy. We aimed to identify risk factors for SSI posthysterectomy among women with a high prevalence of gynecologic malignancies, in a tertiary care setting where compliance with the Joint Commission's Surgical Care Improvement Project core measures is excellent. Methods The study was a matched case–control, 2 controls per case, matched on date of surgery. Study time was January 2, 2012-December 31, 2015. Procedures included abdominal and vaginal hysterectomies (open, laparoscopic, and robotic). SSI (superficial incisional or deep/organ/space) was defined as within 30 days postoperatively, per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Statistical analysis included bivariate analysis and conditional logistic regression controlling for demographic and clinical variables, both patient-related and surgery-related, including detailed prophylactic antibiotic exposure. Results Of the total 1,531 hysterectomies performed, we identified 52 SSIs (3%), with 60% being deep incisional or organ/space infections. All case patients received appropriate preoperative antibiotics (timing, choice, and weight-based dosing). Bivariate analysis showed that higher median weight, higher median Charlson comorbidity index, immune suppressed state, American Society of Anesthesiologists score ≥ 3, prior surgery within 60 days, clindamycin/gentamicin prophylaxis, surgery involving the omentum or gastrointestinal tract, longer surgery duration, ≥4 surgeons present in the operating room, higher median blood loss, ≥7 catheters or invasive devices in the operating room, and higher median length of hospital stay increased SSI risk ( P P P = .02). Conclusions In our population of women with multimorbidity and hysterectomies largely due to underlying gynecologic malignancies, duration of surgery, presumed a marker of surgical complexity, is a significant SSI risk factor. The choice of preoperative antibiotic did not alter SSI risk in our study.

The aim of this article is to describe the current state of the patient role in antimicrobial stewardship efforts. There is a global crisis in antimicrobial resistance (AR) for which antimicrobial use is the main driver. Antimicrobial stewardship (AS) is a critical ally in the battle against AR. The extent to which specific AS initiatives are implemented across settings varies considerably; many acute care settings have a formal antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP), but other patient care settings such as outpatient clinics or long-term care facilities are generally in the early phases of developing AS efforts which may include a regional approach encompassing transitions of care. In recognizing that a coordinated care approach across the spectrum of healthcare is essential to improve patient outcomes, there is a renewed and increased push to broaden AS implementation across multiple settings. In the acute care setting, a common characteristic of an ASP is a multidisciplinary team to guide antibiotic decision-making at an individual and a facility level. Efforts often target appropriate use of antimicrobials via formulary restrictions, prescribing decision-support models, education, and audit and feedback of prescribing practices. Patients are not usually included in stewardship efforts. Stewardship literature which includes a patient-role component is limited and focuses primarily on physician-patient communication or educational campaigns to raise public awareness of AS. There is little research exploring direct patient involvement in AS efforts, although there is some evidence that patients are aware of the implications of AR, its link to antimicrobial use, and its impact on health at the population level. Recent work has shown that patients believe there is a role for them in AS efforts; however, there is no guidance on the best approach to achieve patient involvement in AS initiatives and no evidence of the effect of such patient involvement on clinical outcomes. In order to fill the gap in knowledge related to the patient role in AS, we recommend the following for clinicians and researchers: • Increase patient awareness and understanding of AS and the impact on their care. This may be the first step in successfully involving patients in AS endeavors. • Identify situations in which patients can realistically become part of the AS movement across the healthcare spectrum. This would call for studying the process of patient recruitment and engagement and impact of adding the patient voice. This could also include studying patient perspectives about being involved in AS, along with clinician and researcher perspectives of involving patients. • Undertake research studies to examine different implementation strategies for involving patients and evaluate the effect of engagement on clinical outcomes relevant to AS such as decreased antibiotic usage and antibiotic resistance.

tudy Objective As patients with abdominal solid organ transplants (SOT) are at increased risk of polymicrobial intraabdominal infections (IAIs) following transplantation, the objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness and adverse event profile of tigecycline with those of other broad-spectrum therapies for polymicrobial IAIs in this population. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Large academic medical center with multiple outpatient clinics. Patients A total of 81 adult SOT recipients were included who were treated for confirmed or suspected polymicrobial IAIs from 2007–2012; of these patients, 27 received tigecycline and 54 received comparator therapy with a broad-spectrum β-lactam (e.g., piperacillin-tazobactam, cefepime, or meropenem) with or without glycopeptide or lipopeptide gram-positive therapy (vancomycin or daptomycin) (comparator group). Patients in the comparator group were matched to tigecycline-treated patients based on transplant type (kidney, combined kidney-pancreas, combined kidney-liver, or solitary pancreas) in a 1:2 ratio (tigecycline:other broad-spectrum antibiotics). Measurements And Main Results Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, and clinical variables were collected and compared by using bivariate analyses. Clinical outcomes—clinical cure, improvement, or failure, and disease recurrence—as well as death within 1 year were analyzed by bivariate analyses and logistic regression. Clinical cure was lower in the tigecycline group versus the comparator group (40.7% vs 72.2%, p=0.008), but cure combined with improvement was similar between the two groups (85.2% vs 88.9%, p=0.724). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that treatment with comparator antibiotics increased the odds of cure (odds ratio [OR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15–12.27) and reduced the odds of treatment failure (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.07-4.55) and death within 1 year (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.22–2.86); however, patients receiving comparator antibiotics were more likely to have disease recurrence (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.33–6.36). Patients receiving tigecycline experienced a higher rate of adverse events than those receiving comparator antibiotics (29.6% vs 9.3%, p=0.026). Conclusion Patients receiving tigecycline were less likely to achieve optimal clinical outcomes and had more adverse events. Alternative regimens should be selected over tigecycline for treatment of polymicrobial IAIs in abdominal SOT recipients until additional studies are completed to examine its role in this population. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Cancer care continues to stress the US healthcare system with increases in life expectancy, cancer prevalence, and survivors' complex needs. These challenges are compounded by socioeconomic, racial, and cultural disparities that are associated with poor clinical outcomes. One innovative and resource-wise strategy to address this demand on the system is expanded use of telehealth. This paradigm has the potential to decrease healthcare and patient out-of-pocket costs and improve patient adherence to recommended treatment and/or surveillance.

Background Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ) is an organism of great public health importance, causing 20,000 deaths annually. Decolonization of patients with S. aureus may prevent infections, yet current options are limited to antimicrobials that promote antibiotic resistance and can cause adverse side effects. Probiotics have potential to reduce colonization of pathogenic bacteria, representing a promising alternative for S. aureus decolonization, but thus far lack rigorous evaluation. Methods Potential subjects were recruited from inpatient and outpatient settings within a VA medical center and screened for S. aureus gastrointestinal (GI) or extra-GI colonization using swabs at multiple body sites. Positive, eligible, consenting participants were stratified by colonization site and randomized in a 1:1 ratio to 4-weeks of daily placebo or Lactobacillus rhamnosus ( L. rhamnosus ) HN001 probiotic treatment. Blood and stool samples, and treatment adherence reports were collected from each subject throughout the study, along with a final set of swabs at study completion to detect S. aureus carriage. The outcomes of this study are GI or extra-GI carriage by S. aureus at the end of 4 weeks of therapy, change in phagocytic activity of polymorphonuclear cells from pre-intervention to post-intervention, and symptomatic S. aureus infection at any site during the study period. Conclusion 114 participants have been recruited for this study. Analysis of outcomes is underway. This is the first clinical trial to examine the efficacy of L. rhamnosus HN001 for decolonization of S. aureus , and investigates the mechanism by which L. rhamnosus HN001 mediates its effect on S. aureus colonization. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01321606

Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients are an increasing population due to recent military conflicts. SCI patients are at an increased risk of infection, but the epidemiology management and prevention strategies for these infections are unclear. To review the incidence, microbiology and management of pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI), urinary tract infections (UTI) and bloodstream infections in the SCI population via literature review. With the assistance of an experienced medical librarian, we developed a search strategy for the Ovid MEDLINE database and then adapted it for the Ovid Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The databases were searched from their inception to April 2014 with no restrictions on language or time period. Data were extracted using a standardized form. All studies were reviewed by two independent investigators. Forty-one studies reporting on the described infections were identified. UTIs were the most commonly identified infections, but studies failed to identify consistently effective preventive strategies. SSTIs were also common, and the best preventive strategies focused on decubitus ulcer prevention and skin decolonization protocols. Pneumonia management and course were not significantly different from the general population. Bloodstream infections were associated with delays in recognition, and were most often secondary to UTI, pneumonia or SSTI. There is a paucity of literature on consistently effective infection prevention strategies in SCI patients. Identification and implementation of evidence-based interventions that optimize prevention and management of infections in this patient population are needed.

New guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of infections due to Aspergillus species were published in August of 2016 by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) (1), replacing those previously published in 2008 (2). These guidelines incorporate new data published between January 2008 and December 2014. The document provides guidance on non-culture-based diagnosis of Aspergillus infections, discourages the use of combination anti-fungal therapy for primary management, and begins to define the place in therapy for isavuconazole, a new anti-fungal drug of the azole class approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2015 to treat aspergillosis and mucormycosis.

Background Invasive candidiasis (IC) is a common cause of mortality in solid organ transplant recipients (OTRs), but knowledge of epidemiology in this population is limited. Method The present analysis describes data from 15 US centers that prospectively identified IC from nearly 17,000 OTRs. Analyses were undertaken to determine predictors of infection and mortality. Results A total of 639 cases of IC were identified. The most common species was Candida albicans (46.3%), followed by Candida glabrata (24.4%) and Candida parapsilosis (8.1%). In 68 cases >1 species was identified. The most common infection site was bloodstream (44%), followed by intra-abdominal (14%). The most frequently affected allograft groups were liver (41.1%) and kidney (35.3%). All-cause mortality at 90 days was 26.5% for all species and was highest for Candida tropicalis (44%) and C. parapsilosis (35.2%). Non-white race and female gender were more commonly associated with non-albicans species. A high rate of breakthrough IC was seen in patients receiving antifungal prophylaxis (39%). Factors associated with mortality include organ dysfunction, lung transplant, and treatment with a polyene antifungal. The only modifiable factor identified was choice of antifungal drug class based upon infecting Candida species. Conclusion These data highlight the common and distinct features of IC in OTRs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Objective Complications of intravenous catheters remain a major contributor to health care costs and are a patient safety problem. An intravenous catheter not actively in use—an idle catheter—may increase the risk of infectious and noninfectious complications. We conducted an integrative review of the available literature to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with idle intravenous catheters. Methods Searches of multiple computerized databases were conducted to identify studies on idle intravenous catheters. Data on definitions of idle catheter, type of catheter, prevalence, risk factors, and patient outcomes were extracted. Results Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The location and setting of the studies were diverse, including cross-sectional, retrospective, and prospective, and were conducted in varied geographic locations. The definition of an idle catheter was variable across studies. Although studies varied in terms of line-days or number of catheters placed, the primary definition of idle device was based on number of days or percent of devices left in situ without use. Four studies evaluated patient outcomes associated with idle catheters and found increased risk of infection, intensive care unit admission, and phlebitis. Conclusions Idle intravenous catheters are common and are associated with adverse outcomes. Prospective studies incorporating uniform definitions of idle catheters to test interventions to reduce idle catheter use are urgently needed.

BACKGROUNDTransmission of pathogens within the hospital environment remains a hazard for hospitalized patients. Healthcare personnel clothing and devices carried by them may harbor pathogens and contribute to the risk of pathogen transmission.OBJECTIVETo examine bacterial contamination of healthcare personnel attire and commonly used devices.METHODSSystematic review.RESULTSOf 1,175 studies screened, 72 individual studies assessed contamination of a variety of items, including white coats, neckties, stethoscopes, and mobile electronic devices, with varied pathogens includingStaphylococcus aureus,including methicillin-resistantS. aureus, gram-negative rods, and enterococci. Contamination rates varied significantly across studies and by device but in general ranged from 0 to 32% for methicillin-resistantS. aureusand gram-negative rods.Enterococcuswas a less common contaminant. Few studies explicitly evaluated for the presence ofClostridium difficile.Sampling and microbiologic techniques varied significantly across studies. Four studies evaluated for possible connection between healthcare personnel contaminants and clinical isolates with no unequivocally direct link identified.CONCLUSIONSFurther studies to explore the relationship between healthcare personnel attire and devices and clinical infection are needed.Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2016;1–7

In this paper we present preliminary findings that address the work system of physicians, nurses and environmental services workers and their ability to comply with one clinically accepted intervention associated with Clostridium difficile infection. Despite differences in their roles, responsibilities and focus related to management of patients with Clostridium difficile infection, numerous similarities exist in the type of work system considerations they must each face.

Background Several clusters of Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections associated with contaminated endoscopes have recently been reported. Interim guidelines for mitigating endoscope-associated transmission have been proposed, but there has not been a systematic appraisal of CRE prevention practices. Methods We conducted a systematic review of endoscope-associated CRE infection episodes, abstracting information on outbreak detection, mitigation, outcomes, and corrective steps taken to prevent recurrence. Results Seven distinct outbreaks were identified in the published literature, and 5 of these were associated with duodenal endoscopy, with the remaining 2 associated with cystoscopy and ureteroscopy. Several investigators noted difficulties in cleaning protocols surrounding difficult to access components, such as the elevator on duodenoscopes. The published investigations did not report any failures of sterilization. It is unclear if routine reprocessing was ineffective, or difficult to execute properly. Conclusions Meticulous cleaning protocols and increased surveillance are necessary to prevent and detect future outbreaks of CRE and to determine whether more stringent measures, such as sterilization, are needed for duodenoscopes.

Introduction Suicide prevention remains a national priority, especially among vulnerable populations. With increasing trends in suicide among Veterans, understanding the underlying factors associated with such an outcome is imperative. In this study, the association between unmet mental healthcare need and suicidal ideation among U.S. Veterans was evaluated. Methods The National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2008–2013, was used to identify those with mental illness, resulting in a total sample of 2,015 Veterans. Data were analyzed in July 2015. Survey-weighted descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted with p Results Sixteen percent of Veterans reported unmet mental healthcare need and 18% had past-year suicidal ideation. After adjusting for confounders, unmet mental healthcare need was associated with increased likelihood of suicidal ideation (AOR=4.11) in the study population. Other characteristics, such as participating in a governmental assistance program and alcohol dependency in the past year, demonstrated 66% and 103% increased odds of suicidal ideation, respectively. Conclusions Unmet mental healthcare need is a critical aspect of suicidal ideation among Veterans. Improved access to care for such at-risk populations through means of integrated care is needed to ensure reduced burden of suicide among Veterans.

The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety was used to identify opportunities for safety culture improvement in a 30-bed intensive care unit. Based on the survey results, a core team decided to focus on three safety domains: reporting errors, approachability of authority figures and handovers. The project team subsequently interviewed 39 intensive care unit staff members, gathering information on these three domains that will inform future safety efforts. Numerous barriers and facilitators to improvement were described. This mixed-methods approach could be applied in other hospitals seeking to quickly yet thoroughly understand how their safety culture can be improved. Developing local strategies to reduce these barriers may promote a safer patient experience at our hospital.

Introduction Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a severe and increasingly frequent healthcare-associated infection that develops after disruption of the gut microbiota. Immunocompromised, hospitalized patients have an increased likelihood of acquiring CDI, leading to lengthened hospital stays, increased medical fees, and higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Treatment of CDI is challenging because of limited treatment options and a 19–20% recurrence rate. Thus, there is a need for effective, affordable and safe treatments for CDI. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is the transplantation of donor stool into the intestine of a CDI patient to restore the structure and function of the gut microbiota and eradicate CDI. Recently, FMT has become an attractive alternative treatment for CDI due to its overwhelming success rate. However, the patient perspective on the effect of CDI and the role of FMT in that context is lacking. Methods We undertook a patient survey to gather qualitative and quantitative data on the short-term social, physical, emotional outcomes for patients with CDI who have undergone FMT. Results We found in all patients interviewed that the social implications of CDI were generally more severe than the emotional and physical aspects. Conclusion Future studies should consider evaluating these important patient-centered factors as outcomes. Moreover, patients are willing to undergo FMT as treatment for CDI.

OBJECTIVETo improve hand hygiene (HH) compliance among physicians and nurses in a rural hospital in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) using the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care.DESIGNThis study was a quasi-experimental design divided into 4 phases: (1) preparation of materials and acquisition of the hospital administration’s support, (2) baseline evaluation, (3) intervention, and (4) follow-up evaluation.SETTINGA 160-bed, non-referral hospital in Gitwe, RwandaPARTICIPANTSA total of 12 physicians and 54 nurses participated in this study.METHODSThe intervention consisted of introducing locally produced alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR); educating healthcare workers (HCWs) on proper HH practice; providing pocket-sized ABHR bottles for HCWs; placing HH reminders in the workplace; and surveying HCWs at surrounding health centers regarding HH compliance barriers. Hand hygiene infrastructure, compliance, and knowledge were assessed among physicians and nurses using baseline observations and a follow-up evaluation survey.RESULTSOverall, HH compliance improved from 34.1% at baseline to 68.9% post intervention (PPP>.05).CONCLUSIONHand hygiene campaigns using WHO methods in SSA have been implemented exclusively in large, referral hospitals. This study shows that an HH program using the WHO tools successfully improved HH in a low-income, rural hospital in SSA.Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2016;37:834–839

Patients with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) are placed in contact precautions. We surveyed 31 visitors of CDI patients to understand their compliance, knowledge, and perceptions of contact precautions. Although most visitors knew where to find the required personal protective equipment, only 42% were fully compliant with gown and gloves. Family members accounted for 90% of visitors, and roughly half of the reasons given for not gowning were related to a lack of perceived risk for family members. Nursing staff are fundamental sources of personal protective equipment (PPE) information for visitors; however, we found variation in staff communication regarding need for visitor PPE use.

Background Understanding the health effects of exposure to chemical mixtures is critically important given the broad range of concurrent exposures throughout the life-course. While investigations of environmental chemicals and components of the human microbiome are becoming more common, few have examined associations with chemical mixtures. This study assesses the association between exposure to mixtures of 66 different environmental chemicals and nasal colonization of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin resistant SA (MRSA). Methods Data came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2004. The analytical sample consists of 10,312 participants, age 6 years and older, subdivided into 8 groups with different chemical exposure mixtures. Within each of 6 chemical classes (metals, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polyfluorochemicals (PFCs), and phenols), weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression was used to analyze the joint association of the component compounds and nasal SA colonization. WQS was also used to assess the joint association of 3 chemical mixtures (metals, metal and PAHs, and metal and triclosan) and nasal MRSA colonization. All regression models were adjusted for confounders. Results The analytical sample was between ages 6–85, slightly more female, and predominantly non-smokers. Prevalence of SA carriage was 29.2%, and MRSA colonization prevalence was 1.2%. Within each chemical class, odds of SA colonization increased statistically significantly with exposure to mixtures of metals (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.02–1.20), phthalates (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04–1.14), and phenols (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.01–1.15). Exposure to a mixture of metals combined with PAHs was also associated with increased odds of MRSA carriage (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.02–1.86). Conclusion Results indicate an association between multiple environmental chemical mixtures and SA colonization, including MRSA. These findings support the need for further analysis of associations between chemical mixtures and SA colonization, as well as other components of the human microbiome.

Background: Intravitreal injection of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors with or without steroids is a well-established, effective therapy for several ocular disorders. The expected rate of complications from these injections is low, with meta-analyses reporting 5–6 occurrences of infectious endophthalmitis per 10,000 injections. Through October 2019, our health system observed 8 cases of endophthalmitis among 7,693 injections (10.4 per 10,000 injections), compared to 1 case in 2018. This unusually high rate prompted an infection control investigation and a case control study to examine risk factors for the development of postintravitreal injection endophthalmitis. Methods: Infection control providers performed direct observation of several ophthalmologists performing intravitreal injections on 3 separate occasions to determine points of intervention to prevent infection. To define risk factors for postintravitreal injection endophthalmitis, we conducted a retrospective case-control study of the 8 affected patients. Four control patients were selected per case, matched by clinic location, drug injected, and date of injection (total subjects, N = 40). We extracted patient-level risk factors from medical records; documentation was not sufficient to compare procedure-level factors. We conducted unadjusted univariate Poisson regression and Mantel–Cox method rate ratios to identify significant risk predictors of endophthalmitis. Results: Direct observation yielded variable practice in use of masks, gloves, sterile lid speculum, and the duration of povidone-iodine contact on the ocular surface prior to injection. The location of alcohol hand gel relative to the procedure field was suboptimal. Due to patient volume, there were significant delays between procedure and patient prep and injection time. The mean age was 76 years among cases and 74.1 years among controls; 35% of patients were men. Age-related macular degeneration was the most common indication for injection (55%). Only 10% of injections were bilateral. Although not statistically significant, patients with coronary artery disease had a higher rate of infection than those without coronary artery disease (165.3 vs 16.3 per 10,000 person years; IRR = 3.0; 95% CI, 0.60–14.8; P = .18); current smokers were also at higher risk (86.9 per 10,000; IRR, 3.2; 95% CI, 0.33–30.4; P = .32). Conclusions: Coronary artery disease and smoking were risk factors for the development of postintravitreal injection endophthalmitis in a 2019 cluster of cases in our organization. We are continuing to work with our ophthalmologists to optimize infection prevention in the injection environment, including strict use of gloves, appropriate use of povidone-iodine, and routinely wearing a mask and encouraging a no-talking policy during injections.Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

Background: Enhanced terminal room cleaning with ultraviolet C (UVC) disinfection has become more commonly used as a strategy to reduce the transmission of important nosocomial pathogens, including Clostridioides difficile, but the real-world effectiveness remains unclear. Objectives: We aimed to assess the association of UVC disinfection during terminal cleaning with the incidence of healthcare-associated C. difficile infection and positive test results for C. difficile within the nationwide Veterans Health Administration (VHA) System. Methods: Using a nationwide survey of VHA system acute-care hospitals, information on UV-C system utilization and date of implementation was obtained. Hospital-level incidence rates of clinically confirmed hospital-onset C. difficile infection (HO-CDI) and positive test results with recent healthcare exposures (both hospital-onset [HO-LabID] and community-onset healthcare-associated [CO-HA-LabID]) at acute-care units between January 2010 and December 2018 were obtained through routine surveillance with bed days of care (BDOC) as the denominator. We analyzed the association of UVC disinfection with incidence rates of HO-CDI, HO-Lab-ID, and CO-HA-LabID using a nonrandomized, stepped-wedge design, using negative binomial regression model with hospital-specific random intercept, the presence or absence of UVC disinfection use for each month, with baseline trend and seasonality as explanatory variables. Results: Among 143 VHA acute-care hospitals, 129 hospitals (90.2%) responded to the survey and were included in the analysis. UVC use was reported from 42 hospitals with various implementation start dates (range, June 2010 through June 2017). We identified 23,021 positive C. difficile test results (HO-Lab ID: 5,014) with 16,213 HO-CDI and 24,083,252 BDOC from the 129 hospitals during the study period. There were declining baseline trends nationwide (mean, −0.6% per month) for HO-CDI. The use of UV-C had no statistically significant association with incidence rates of HO-CDI (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.032; 95% CI, 0.963–1.106; P = .65) or incidence rates of healthcare-associated positive C. difficile test results (HO-Lab). Conclusions: In this large quasi-experimental analysis within the VHA System, the enhanced terminal room cleaning with UVC disinfection was not associated with the change in incidence rates of clinically confirmed hospital-onset CDI or positive test results with recent healthcare exposure. Further research is needed to understand reasons for lack of effectiveness, such as understanding barriers to utilization.Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

Background: In the state of Wisconsin, 3%–4% of bats submitted for rabies testing are positive. Inpatient bat encounters at 2 affiliated healthcare facilities at nearly the same time were brought to the attention of the infection prevention and control (IPC) team. The first bat was captured in a patient room and was submitted for testing. Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) was initiated for 1 patient before the bat testing results came back negative. The second bat was found in a transplant unit hallway and was released before we could request testing. We observed significant variations in responses, including decision to administer PEP and submission of bats for rabies testing. The IPC team developed a protocol to minimize unnecessary PEP, to prevent nosocomial rabies infection from bat exposure, and to limit associated panic. Methods: A systematic literature review of multiple databases was performed. A search of nonscientific articles using Google was also performed to assess unpublished inpatient bat encounters. A workgroup was established including IPC staff, physicians, and facilities management. The county animal services department and the state public health department veterinarian were consulted to aid in development of a protocol. Results: Literature review yielded a single report of a bat discovered in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A lack of protocol resulted in PEP administration to 7 neonates without observed exposure after the bat was released instead of being submitted for testing. Of the first 100 articles retrieved via Google search of “bat in hospital,” 9 pertained to nosocomial discovery of bats in 5 different states over the past 7 years. Encounters included infestations requiring unit shutdowns and PEP administration. One tertiary-care referral center reported 10 encounters per year but did not elaborate on associated procedures. The county animal services staff assisted in training maintenance and engineering services (MES) personnel on how to secure bats for testing and helped develop a “bat kit” with protective gear and equipment to do so safely. In the new protocol, an inpatient bat encounter prompts personnel to capture the bat and begin an investigation into known or potential occult exposure. Known or potential exposures merit submission of the bat for rabies testing, the results of which guide PEP recommendations. All encounters are investigated for point of entry or roost. Conclusions: Inpatient bat encounters are not uncommon. Encounters should prompt systematic assessment for exposures and an investigation of the root cause. Following a protocol may limit unnecessary PEP administration, prevent nosocomial transmission of rabies from bat to patient, and attenuate associated anxiety.Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

Key Points Question What is the most cost-effective infection control strategy for reducing hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection? Findings In this economic evaluation study, an agent-based simulation of C difficile transmission at a 200-bed model hospital found 5 dominant interventions that reduced costs and improved outcomes compared with baseline practices, as follows: daily cleaning (the most cost-effective, saving $358 268 and 36.8 quality-adjusted life-years annually), terminal cleaning, health care worker hand hygiene, patient hand hygiene, and reduced intrahospital patient transfers. The incremental cost-effectiveness of implementing multiple intervention strategies quickly decreased beyond a 2-pronged bundle. Meaning The findings of this study suggest that institutions should streamline infection control bundles, prioritizing a small number of highly cost-effective interventions., This economic evaluation study compares the cost-effectiveness of 9 Clostridioides difficile single intervention strategies and 8 multi-intervention bundles., Importance Clostridioides difficile infection is the most common hospital-acquired infection in the United States, yet few studies have evaluated the cost-effectiveness of infection control initiatives targeting C difficile. Objective To compare the cost-effectiveness of 9 C difficile single intervention strategies and 8 multi-intervention bundles. Design, Setting, and Participants This economic evaluation was conducted in a simulated 200-bed tertiary, acute care, adult hospital. The study relied on clinical outcomes from a published agent-based simulation model of C difficile transmission. The model included 4 agent types (ie, patients, nurses, physicians, and visitors). Cost and utility estimates were derived from the literature. Interventions Daily sporicidal cleaning, terminal sporicidal cleaning, health care worker hand hygiene, patient hand hygiene, visitor hand hygiene, health care worker contact precautions, visitor contact precautions, C difficile screening at admission, and reduced intrahospital patient transfers. Main Outcomes and Measures Cost-effectiveness was evaluated from the hospital perspective and defined by 2 measures: cost per hospital-onset C difficile infection averted and cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). Results In this agent-based model of a simulated 200-bed tertiary, acute care, adult hospital, 5 of 9 single intervention strategies were dominant, reducing cost, increasing QALYs, and averting hospital-onset C difficile infection compared with baseline standard hospital practices. They were daily cleaning (most cost-effective, saving $358 268 and 36.8 QALYs annually), health care worker hand hygiene, patient hand hygiene, terminal cleaning, and reducing intrahospital patient transfers. Screening at admission cost $1283/QALY, while health care worker contact precautions and visitor hand hygiene interventions cost $123 264/QALY and $5 730 987/QALY, respectively. Visitor contact precautions was dominated, with increased cost and decreased QALYs. Adding screening, health care worker hand hygiene, and patient hand hygiene sequentially to the daily cleaning intervention formed 2-pronged, 3-pronged, and 4-pronged multi-intervention bundles that cost an additional $29 616/QALY, $50 196/QALY, and $146 792/QALY, respectively. Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this study suggest that institutions should seek to streamline their infection control initiatives and prioritize a smaller number of highly cost-effective interventions. Daily sporicidal cleaning was among several cost-saving strategies that could be prioritized over minimally effective, costly strategies, such as visitor contact precautions.

Key Points Question Can data from patient-collected audio recordings of their visits help clinicians improve their attention to patient life context when planning care, improve patient outcomes, and reduce health care costs? Findings In this quality improvement study, feedback was delivered to 666 clinicians based on analysis of 4496 audio-recorded visits. Attention to patient contextual factors increased from 67% to 72%, and contextualized care planning was associated with a greater likelihood of improved outcomes, resulting in an estimated cost savings of $25.2 million from avoided hospitalizations. Meaning These findings suggest that continuous feedback to clinicians about their attention to patient life context, based on audio recordings of their care, may substantially improve their performance, with measurable benefits for their patients and substantial cost savings., This quality improvement study evaluates the effectiveness of a program in which clinicians at Veterans Affairs (VA) clinics receive ongoing feedback on their attention to patient contextual factors via patient-collected, audio-recorded sessions., Importance Evidence-based care plans can fail when they do not consider relevant patient life circumstances, termed contextual factors, such as a loss of social support or financial hardship. Preventing these contextual errors can reduce obstacles to effective care. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of a quality improvement program in which clinicians receive ongoing feedback on their attention to patient contextual factors. Design, Setting, and Participants In this quality improvement study, patients at 6 Department of Veterans Affairs outpatient facilities audio recorded their primary care visits from May 2017 to May 2019. Encounters were analyzed using the Content Coding for Contextualization of Care (4C) method. A feedback intervention based on the 4C coded analysis was introduced using a stepped wedge design. In the 4C coding schema, clues that patients are struggling with contextual factors are termed contextual red flags (eg, sudden loss of control of a chronic condition), and a positive outcome is prospectively defined for each encounter as a quantifiable improvement of the contextual red flag. Data analysis was performed from May to October 2019. Interventions Clinicians received feedback at 2 intensity levels on their attention to patient contextual factors and on predefined patient outcomes at 4 to 6 months. Main Outcomes and Measures Contextual error rates, patient outcomes, and hospitalization rates and costs were measured. Results The patients (mean age, 62.0 years; 92% male) recorded 4496 encounters with 666 clinicians. At baseline, clinicians addressed 413 of 618 contextual factors in their care plans (67%). After either standard or enhanced feedback, they addressed 1707 of 2367 contextual factors (72%), a significant difference (odds ratio, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1-1.6; P = .01). In a mixed-effects logistic regression model, contextualized care planning was associated with a greater likelihood of improved outcomes (adjusted odds ratio, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.5-4.1; P

Background: Environmental sources have been implicated as a potential source for exogenous acquisition of Candida species, particularly the emerging multidrug-resistant Candida auris. However, limited information is available on environmental reservoirs of Candida species in healthcare facilities. Methods: During a 6-month period, cultures for Candida species were collected from high-touch surfaces in patient rooms and from portable equipment in 6 US acute care hospitals in 4 states. Additional cultures were collected from sink drains and floors in one of the hospitals and from high-touch surfaces, portable equipment, and sink drains in a hospital experiencing an outbreak due to C. auris. Candida species were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectometry. Results: Candida species were recovered from patient rooms in 4 of the 6 hospitals. Seven of 147 patient room cultures (4.8%) and 1 of 57 (1.8%) portable equipment cultures were positive, with the most common species being C. parapsilosis. For the hospital where additional sites were sampled, Candida species were recovered from 8 of 22 (36.4%) hospital room floors and 4 of 17 (23.5%) sink drains. In the facility with a C. auris outbreak, Candida species were frequently recovered from sink drains (20.7%) and high-touch surfaces (15.4%), but recovery of C. auris was uncommon (3.8% of high-touch surfaces, 3.4% of sink drains, and 0% of portable equipment) and only present in rooms that currently or recently housed a patient with C. auris. Conclusion: Candida species often contaminate surfaces in hospitals and may be particularly common on floors and in sink drains. However, C. auris contamination was uncommon in a facility experiencing an outbreak, suggesting that current cleaning and disinfection practices can be effective in minimizing environmental contamination.

Education related to antimicrobial stewardship-the judicious use of antimicrobials-is essential to stem the rising tide of resistance.Using a scoping review method that includes a consultation component, we explored the extent to which antimicrobial stewardship is incorporated in undergraduate medical education.We found 4 studies evaluating stewardship content in undergraduate medical school curricula along with 2 studies assessing the effectiveness of specific stewardship training programs in medical education.We highlight three recommendations: (1) if applicable, identify an institutional "champion" and incorporate antibiotic stewardship-related content into medical school curriculum; (2) evaluate the status and effectiveness of antibiotic stewardship curricular components in medical education; (3) conduct research evaluating the long-term outcomes of antibiotic stewardship training in medical education.

Probiotics may represent a promising approach for reducing Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infections (CDIs). A clinical trial conducted by our group demonstrated that CDI patients undergoing adjunctive treatment with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics had a reduction in diarrheal duration and compositional changes in their stool microbiomes. Here, we modified a CDI mouse model to represent clinical outcomes observed in patients and employed this model to identify evidence for the prevention of primary CDI and relapse with the same probiotic. Mice (n = 80) were administered 0.25 mg/ml cefoperazone over 5 days and subsequently challenged with 10(2) C. difficile VPI 10463 spores. A subset of mice (n = 40) were administered 10(8) CFU of probiotics daily alongside cefoperazone pretreatment and until experimental endpoints were reached. Clinical scoring was performed daily on mice and used to evaluate CDI onset and severity. Moderate CDI in mice was defined by survival beyond day 3 postinfection, while mice with severe CDI were those who succumbed to infection prior to day 3 postinfection. Sequencing and analysis of 16S rRNA from stool content were performed to determine compositional alterations to the microbiota. Using total clinical scores, we identified an association between probiotic treatment and delayed onset of primary CDI and relapse by approximately 12 to 24 h (P

Summary of empiric antibiotic therapy guidelines used at the study site for developing the PARA program. Guidelines were derived from national and local guidelines in the Philippines for empiric antibiotic therapy [11, 12] and institutional antibiogram data (data not shown). (DOCX 18 kb)

Surgical site infections (SSIs) following transplantation have been linked to increased mortality, graft rejection, increased length of stay, and increased resource utilization ). Rates of SSI vary and can reach as high as 37% for some transplant procedures . The risk of infection depends greatly on type of surgery and patient-specific factors. Postoperative wound infections following transplant generally occur within 30 days of surgery and can range from superficial to organ/space involvement. A number of factors predispose transplant patients to SSI including immunosuppression, reoperation, diabetes, and obesity . The route of infection is dependent on type of transplant surgery and may be both endogenous and exogenous . Microorganisms in posttransplant SSIs are primarily bacterial; however, fungal infections may also play a role . Multidrug-resistant organisms are becoming an increasingly common culprit of SSI in this population due to a heavy exposure to the healthcare system, use of prophylactic antibiotics, and immunosuppression. There are few guidelines to direct therapy. In general, management with debridement alone is not sufficient in the transplant population, due to impaired host defenses. Culture or PCR of tissues is critical to diagnose resistant or unexpected pathogens. Depending upon local epidemiology and site of infection, antibiotics to target resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms (including Pseudomonas), Candida, and, on occasion, Aspergillus, may be necessary. Measures to prevent SSI during the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative period should be evidence-based and incorporated into hospital quality control initiatives.

Theoretically, the spectrum of liver disease in renal transplant recipients should mimic the spectrum of disease seen in society. It is axiomatic that renal transplant recipients are at risk for all the acute and chronic liver disorders seen in the nontransplant population. Surveys of the prevalence of chronic liver injury in otherwise healthy subjects suggest that the burden of unrecognized liver disease in the apparently healthy community is high. A study by Ioannou et al. used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 1999 and 2002 to assess the prevalence of elevated serum transaminase activities in a cohort of 6823 American adults. The prevalence of elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was 8.9%, a result that is more than double that of previously available estimates in similar populations. Recently another NHANES study of American adolescents identified the presence of an elevated ALT, defined as a value above 30 U/mL, in 8.0% of the population. Risk factors for an elevated ALT included higher waist circumference, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, and fasting triglycerides.

Duodenoscope use in healthcare facilities has been associated with transmission of multidrug resistant pathogens between patients. To assist healthcare facilities in monitoring the quality of their duodenoscope reprocessing procedures and limit patient risk of infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deployed voluntary interim duodenoscope sampling and culturing surveillance protocols in 2015. Though the interim methods were widely adopted, alternative surveillance protocols were developed and implemented at individual institutions. Here, we compared two sampling methods—the 2015 CDC interim protocol and an alternative protocol developed by the University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics (UWHC). We hypothesized that the UWHC protocol would detect a higher incidence of bacterial contamination from reprocessed duodenoscopes. A total of 248 sampling events were performed at UWHC. The CDC protocol (n = 129 sampling events) required culturing samples collected from each duodenoscope after brushing its terminal end and flushing its lumen with sterile water. The UWHC protocol (n = 119 sampling events) required culturing samples collected from each duodenoscope after swabbing its elevator, immersing its terminal end into broth and flushing its lumen with saline. With the CDC method, 8.53% (n = 11) of the duodenoscopes sampled were positive for bacterial growth with 15 isolates recovered. Using the UWHC method, 15.13% (n = 18) of cultures were positive for bacterial growth with 20 isolates recovered. The relative risk of identifying a contaminated duodenoscope using the CDC interim method, however, was not different than when using the UWHC protocol. Mean processing time (27.35 and 5.11 minutes, p<0.001) and total cost per sample event ($17.87 and $15.04) were lower using the UWHC method. As the UWHC protocol provides similar detection rates as the CDC protocol, the UWHC method is useful, provided the shorter processing time and lower cost to perform.

Algorithm for PARA (Prior Approval for Restricted Antimicrobials). (DOCX 145 kb)

The use of intravascular devices for administration of drugs, fluids, blood products, and nutritional support is essential in patients undergoing transplantation procedures. These intravascular devices have a significant potential to produce iatrogenic disease, such as bloodstream infection originating from colonization of the indwelling intravascular devices. Over two-thirds of all healthcare-associated bacteremia originate from devices used for vascular access. Patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, who have inherently compromised immune function because of their cancer and are further incapacitated due to the preparatory pretransplant conditioning regimen or graft-versus-host disease, are particularly prone to device-related infections. In this chapter, a comprehensive review of epidemiology, disease pathogenesis, clinical presentation, treatment, and prevention of intravascular device-related infections is presented.

Background Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is understudied in limited resource settings. In addition, provider awareness of CDI as a prevalent threat is unknown. An assessment of current facilitators and barriers to CDI identification, management, and prevention is needed in limited resource settings to design and evaluate quality improvement strategies to effectively minimize the risk of CDI. Methods Our study aimed to identify CDI perceptions and practices among healthcare providers in South African secondary hospitals to identify facilitators and barriers to providing quality CDI care. Qualitative interviews (11 physicians, 11 nurses, 4 pharmacists,) and two focus groups (7 nurses, 3 pharmacists) were conducted at three district level hospitals in the Cape Town Metropole. Semi-structured interviews elicited provider perceived facilitators, barriers, and opportunities to improve clinical workflow from patient presentation through CDI (1) Identification, (2) Diagnosis, (3) Treatment, and (4) Prevention. In addition, a summary provider CDI knowledge score was calculated for each interviewee for seven components of CDI and management. Results Major barriers identified were knowledge gaps in characteristics of C. difficile identification, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The median overall CDI knowledge score (scale 0–7) from individual interviews was 3 [interquartile range 0.25, 4.75]. Delays in C. difficile testing workflow were identified. Participants perceived supplies for CDI management and prevention were usually available; however, hand hygiene and use of contact precautions was inconsistent. Conclusions Our analysis provides a detailed description of the facilitators and barriers to CDI workflow and can be utilized to design quality improvement interventions among limited resource settings.

Imbalance of the gut microbiota has been linked to many adverse health outcomes including infection, and autoimmune disease. Along with its other detrimental health effects, lead (Pb) exposure may ...

Background Despite efforts to prevent health care–associated infections (HAIs), these infections continue to challenge health care systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes implementation of evidence-based practices. Within the complex health care environment, sustained implementation calls for work systems that harness expertise of interprofessional teams, which, in turn, calls for suitable executive, mid-level, and local leadership. The purpose of this review is to highlight the need to study leadership when using a systems approach to reduce HAIs. Methods This is a scoping review of HAI studies that used a systems engineering model called the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model. We examined if and how leadership was addressed within 1 systems approach. Results We found 15 studies using the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model and, of these, leadership was directly mentioned in 3 studies. In the remaining studies, reference to leadership may be inferred by use of terms such as teamwork, managerial oversight, climate and culture, staffing support, and institutional/administrative support. Conclusions Research is needed to bring recognition of the role of leadership within a work systems approach to reducing HAIs. We need further examination of leadership attributes and communication behaviors that allow staff to diffuse and sustain best practices to prevent HAIs.

Background Sustaining healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prevention practices is complex. We examined the use of Kamishibai Cards (K Cards) as a tool to encourage compliance interactions between leaders and staff. Methods We explored one unit of a children's hospital to assess acceptability of K Cards. Interactions were recorded (n = 14), and interviews were conducted (n = 22). We used the Health Belief Model (HBM) for analyses. Central line utilization, bundle compliance and rates of HAIs were also examined. Results Staff members consider K Card interactions reminders of bundle elements and acceptable for creating positive interactions. Although no causal inference can be made, during K Card implementation, CLABSI rates dropped from 1.83 in 2015 to 0.0 through June 2018. Central line utilization decreased by 3%. Discussion Moving beyond theory to providing practical sustainability tools is an important implementation step. Although our findings are not generalizable, capturing what occurred on one unit provides opportunity to discover how key leadership factors (communication and leadership style) influence the uptake, acceptability and sustained adoption of evidence-based practices. Conclusions K Cards are a practical tool to sustain evidence-based practices and promote communication between leadership and staff - keeping compliance on the minds of frontline workers.

OBJECTIVEIdentify factors referred to as barriers and facilitators that can prevent or assist safe injection practices in ambulatory care settings to guide quality improvement.DESIGNIn this mixed-methods study, we utilized observations and interviews.SETTINGThis study was conducted at ambulatory clinics at a midwestern academic medical center from May through August 2017. Sites included a variety of clinical settings that performed intramuscular, intradermal, intravenous, or intra-articular injections.PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONSDirect observations of injections and interviews of ambulatory care staff were conducted. An observation checklist was created, including standards of injection safety from nationally recognized guidelines. Interview questions were developed using the System Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and then coded by 2 investigators.RESULTSIn total, 106 observations and 36 interviews were completed at 21 clinics. Injection safety standards with the lowest adherence included using needleless access devices to prepare injections (33%) and the proper use of multidose vials (CONCLUSIONSPerceived barriers and facilitators to infection control elements of injection safety are interconnected with SEIPS elements of persons, organizations, technologies, tasks, and environment. Direct observations demonstrated that knowledge of safety injection standards does not necessarily translate to best practices and may not match self-reported data.Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:841–848

Background Antibiotic resistance is one of the world's most pressing public health problems, resulting in over 23,000 deaths per year. One of the main contributing factors to antimicrobial resistance is antibiotic misuse and overuse. Community pharmacists can play a role in reducing antibiotic resistance, since they are one of the most accessible healthcare professionals. Objective The purpose of this paper is to describe community pharmacy interventions and strategies to reduce antibiotic misuse and overuse and to discuss the implications for pharmacy training. Methods A narrative overview strategy was employed to identify papers on antibiotic stewardship and the role of the community pharmacist. Our review examined potential stewardship strategies and interventions within community pharmacy practice that provide opportunities for pharmacists to engage or lead in the reduction of antimicrobial resistance. Results We describe five promising community pharmacist-led intervention strategies: Collaborative Practice Agreements (CPAs), point-of-care (POC) testing, patient consultations, academic detailing and serving as an advocate for patients and other healthcare providers Conclusions This review highlights topics that may warrant increased attention in pharmacy school curricula. Pharmacy schools may want to consider modifying their curricula to address the shifts in practice of the community pharmacist – emphasizing the expanded role of the pharmacist in patient care and public health issues such as outpatient antibiotic stewardship.

Aim: Engaging patients in the planning, implementation and dissemination of research can increase the credibility and relevance of results and lead to higher quality, more patient-centered care. Veterans have unique experiences and healthcare needs, making their input on research related to their care particularly important. However, existing veteran engagement resources primarily focus on veterans who receive care through the Veterans Health Administration (VA). This excludes those veterans – the majority – who do not use the VA for healthcare. Methods: To address this gap, we developed a veteran engagement toolkit that was informed by the work of both VA and non-VA researchers across the USA. Results: The resulting toolkit provides guidance on essential engagement activities relevant to researchers in a variety of settings. Conclusion: Investigators wishing to engage the veteran community may benefit from the experience and lessons summarized in this veteran-informed toolkit, in addition to resources directed at informing community engagement more generally.

The Wrong Frame of Mind A 62-year-old woman with hypertension and depression presented to a urology clinic with a 15-month history of episodic dysuria, hematuria, and polyuria. She reported suprapubic discomfort but no flank pain, nausea, or early satiety.

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is recommended for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) treatment; however, use in solid organ transplantation (SOT) patients has theoretical safety concerns. This multicenter, retrospective study evaluated FMT safety, effectiveness, and risk factors for failure in SOT patients. Primary cure and overall cure were defined as resolution of diarrhea or negative C difficile stool test after a single FMT or after subsequent FMT(s)±anti-CDI antibiotics, respectively. Ninety-four SOT patients underwent FMT, 78% for recurrent CDI and 22% for severe or fulminant CDI. FMT-related adverse events (AE) occurred in 22.3% of cases, mainly comprising self-limiting conditions including nausea, abdominal pain, and FMT-related diarrhea. Severe AEs occurred in 3.2% of cases, with no FMT-related bacteremia. After FMT, 25% of patients with underlying inflammatory bowel disease had worsening disease activity, while 14% of cytomegalovirus-seropositive patients had reactivation. At 3months, primary cure was 58.7%, while overall cure was 91.3%. Predictors of failing a single FMT included inpatient status, severe and fulminant CDI, presence of pseudomembranous colitis, and use of non-CDI antibiotics at the time of FMT. These data suggest FMT is safe in SOT patients. However, repeated FMT(s) or additional antibiotics may be needed to optimize rates of cure with FMT.

Background Progression of liver disease and clinical outcomes in HCV/HBV coinfected persons and how they differ from HCV monoinfected persons and HCV infected persons with resolved HBV infection are not well characterized. We compared incidence of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation and overall mortality in these three groups. Methods Using the Electronically Retrieved Cohort of HCV-infected Veterans (ERCHIVES), we identified those with HCV infection only, HCV/HBV coinfection (HbsAg or HBV DNA or both positive) or HCV with resolved HBV (HbcAb+ in absence of HbsAg or HBV DNA positivity). We excluded those with HIV coinfection or hepatocellular carcinoma at or before baseline, and those who received any HCV or HBV treatment. Incident rates (95% CI) were determined for cirrhosis, first hepatic decompensation event and overall mortality in the three groups. Results We identified 60,368 HCV monoinfected (Gp A), 151 HCV/HBV coinfected (Gp B) and 19,802 HCV infected with resolved HBV infection (Gp C). Mean age was 61.0, 60.9, and 63.0 years in the three groups and 96.5%, 96.0%, and 97.9% were males. Median baseline FIB-4 index was 2.0, 2.2, and 2.1, respectively. Incident cirrhosis (among those without cirrhosis at baseline) was increased 2- to 2.5-fold in HCV/HBV coinfected persons with baseline FIB-4 of 1.46–3.25. Hepatic decompensation and mortality were also increased several-fold in the HCV/HBV coinfected who had minimal or mild/moderate fibrosis at baseline. However, among those with cirrhosis at baseline, the difference was small among HCV/HBV coinfected and the other groups. Conclusion HCV/HBV coinfected persons with minimal or mild/moderate fibrosis at baseline have a much higher risk of developing cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation and mortality. However, once cirrhosis has is established, the difference is diminished. This underscores the need to intervene early when HCV/HBV coinfected persons still have minimal or mild/moderate fibrosis. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.