Hospital-acquired infection surveillance in a neonatal intensive care unit

Incidence of Healthcare-Associated Infections in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Four-Year Retrospective Cohort Study

The COVID-19 pandemic may have had an impact on healthcare-associated infection (HAI) rates. In this study, we analyzed the occurrence of HAIs in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of the Umberto I teaching hospital in Rome before and during the pandemic. All infants admitted from 1 March 2018 to 28 February 2022 were included and were divided into four groups according to their admission date: two groups before the pandemic (periods I and II) and two during the pandemic (periods III and IV). The association between risk factors and time-to-first event was analyzed using a multivariable Cox regression model. Over the four-year period, a total of 503 infants were included, and 36 infections were recorded. After adjusting for mechanical ventilation, birth weight, sex, type of delivery, respiratory distress syndrome, and previous use of netilmicin and fluconazole, the multivariable analysis confirmed that being hospitalized during the pandemic periods (III and IV) was the main risk factor for HAI acquisition. Furthermore, a change in the etiology of these infections was observed across the study periods. Together, these findings suggest that patient management during the pandemic was suboptimal and that HAI surveillance protocols should be implemented in the NICU setting promptly.

Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Infection: A Study about Age as a Risk Factor in Hydrocephalus Pediatrics

BACKGROUND: Shunt infection is one of the dreaded and serious complications following ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP shunt) insertion, especially in a pediatric population. Numerous risk factors have been identified, particularly in developing countries, indicating that age may play an essential element in the pathogenesis of shunt infection, typically in patients <1-year-old. However, a few research demonstrate the inverse result. AIM: The purpose of this was to determine the relationship between age and shunt infection so that it can be taken into consideration when performing VP shunt insertion. METHODS: From January 2017 to December 2019, 98 pediatric patients with hydrocephalus who underwent VP shunt insertion were retrospectively reviewed to determine the relationship between age and shunt infection. We evaluated the microbiology results and management of shunt infection in patients with shunt infection. RESULTS: Fifteen (15.15%) of 98 patients developed shunt infection. Patients aged >3–6 months had a significantly increased risk of shunt infection (p = 0.04; RR = 4.15; CI 95% = 1.19–14.45). Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently encountered pathogen in pediatric patients with shunt infection (53.3%), and the most common management for shunt infection was complete removal of the shunt and systemic antibiotics followed by re-insertion of the shunt after the cerebrospinal fluid was sterile (46.6%). CONCLUSION: We conclude that age, especially those aged >3–6 months, has a significantly higher risk of shunt infection in pediatric patients.

Impact of Different Types of Nosocomial Infection on the Neurodevelopmental Outcome of Very Low Birth Weight Infants

Nosocomial infections (NIs) are important conditions associated with mortality and morbidity in very low birth weight infants (VLBWIs). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of NIs and the different subtypes on neurodevelopmental outcomes in a cohort of VLBWIs. VLBWIs born with a gestational age between 23 ^0/7 and 31 ^6/7 weeks in a level III neonatal center were enrolled. Neonatal morbidities as well as the neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of corrected age were analyzed. Six-hundred infants completed the study successfully. Of these, 38% experienced an NI episode. NIs were associated with an increased risk of neonatal complications, such as brain injury, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and death, and were a significant risk factor for adverse motor development at 2 years of corrected age in our cohort of VLBWIs. The negative impact of NIs on neurodevelopmental outcomes was particularly associated with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), suspected NIs and Gram-positive NIs. This study demonstrated that NIs are a significant risk factor for both morbidity and mortality as well as adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in VLBWIs.

The prevalence and diagnostic criteria of health-care associated infections in neonatal intensive care units in Turkey: A multicenter point- prevalence study

BACKGROUND

Healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) in the neonatal period cause substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Our purpose was to determine the prevalence of HAIs, antimicrobial susceptibility of causative agents, and the adaptivity of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria in neonatal HAI diagnosis.

METHODS

A HAI point prevalence survey was conducted in the neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of 31 hospitals from different geographic regions in Turkey.

RESULTS

The Point HAI prevalence was 7.6%. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and late onset sepsis were predominant. The point prevalence of VAP was 2.1%, and the point prevalence of CLABSI was 1.2% in our study. The most common causative agents in HAIs were Gram-negative rods (43.0%), and the most common agent was Klebsiella spp (24.6%); 81.2% of these species were extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) (+). Blood culture positivity was seen in 33.3% of samples taken from the umbilical venous catheter, whereas 0.9% of samples of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were positive. In our study, 60% of patients who had culture positivity in endotracheal aspirate or who had purulent endotracheal secretions did not have any daily FiO2 change (p = 0.67) and also 80% did not have any increase in positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) (p = 0.7). On the other hand, 18.1% of patients who had clinical deterioration compatible with VAP did not have endotracheal culture positivity (p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Neonatal HAIs are frequent adverse events in district and regional hospitals. This at-risk population should be prioritized for HAI surveillance and prevention programs through improved infection prevention practices, and hand hygiene compliance should be conducted. CDC diagnostic criteria are not sufficient for NICUs. Future studies are warranted for the diagnosis of HAIs in NICUs.

Bacterial contamination of neonatal intensive care units: How safe are the neonates?

Background

Intensive care units (ICU) are essential healthcare facility for life threatening conditions. Bacterial contamination of objects/instruments in ICU is an important source of nosocomial infections. This study is aimed to determine the level of bacterial contamination of instruments/objects which are commonly touched by healthcare workers and frequently come in contact with the neonates.

Methods

This hospital based prospective study was conducted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara, Nepal. A total of 146 samples collected from surfaces of incubators, radiant warmers, suction tips, ventilators, stethoscopes, door handles, weighing machines, mothers’ beds, phototherapy beds, laryngoscope, telephone sets, blood pressure machine, etc. formed the material of the study. Isolation, identification and antibiotic susceptibility of the bacterial isolates was performed by standard techniques. Blood culture isolates from NICU patients during the study period were compared with the environmental isolates.

Results

Out of 146 samples, bacterial growth was observed in 109. A total of 119 bacterial isolates were retrieved from 109 samples. Three common potential pathogens isolated were Escherichia coli (n = 27), Klebsiella species (n = 21) and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 18). Majority of E. coli and Klebsiella isolates were from incubators, suction tips and mothers’ beds. Majority of S. aureus isolates were cultured from radiant warmers. Among S. aureus isolates, 33.3% (6/18) were methicillin resistant. Majority of the bacterial isolates were susceptible to gentamicin and amikacin. Common potential pathogens isolated from blood culture of NICU patients were S. aureus and Klebsiella species.

Conclusion

High degree of bacterial contamination of objects/instruments in NICU was recorded. Isolation of potential pathogens like E. coli, Klebsiella species and S. aureus is a major threat of nosocomial infections. Blood culture data of NICU reflects possibility of nosocomial infections from contaminated sites. Gentamicin and amikacin may be used for empirical therapy in suspected cases of nosocomial infections in NICU.

A retrospective analysis of pathogen profile, antimicrobial resistance and mortality in neonatal hospital-acquired bloodstream infections from 2009-2018 at Tygerberg Hospital, South Africa

Background

Analysis of hospital-acquired bloodstream infection (HA-BSI) trends is important to monitor emerging antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threats and guide empiric antibiotic choices.

Methods

A retrospective 10-year review of neonatal HA-BSI was performed at Tygerberg Hospital’s neonatal unit in Cape Town, South Africa. Neonatal clinical and laboratory data from 2014 to 2018 (Period 2) was compared with published data from 2009 to 2013 (Period 1).

Results

The neonatal unit’s HA-BSI rate declined between periods from 3.9/1000 inpatient-days in Period 1 to 3.3/1000 inpatient-days in Period 2 (p = 0.002). Pathogen yield and blood culture contamination rate were unchanged (11.0% to 10.4%, p = 0.233; 5.1% to 5.3%, p = 0.636 respectively). Gram-negative pathogens predominated (1047/1636; 64.0%); Klebsiella species, Staphylococcus aureus, Serratia marcescens, Enterococcus species and Acinetobacter baumannii were the most frequent pathogens. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase production was observed in 319/432 (73.8%) of Klebsiella species, methicillin resistance in 171/246 (69.5%) of Staphylococcus aureus and extensive drug resistance in 115/137 (83.9%) of Acinetobacter species (2009–2018). The crude mortality rate of neonatal HA-BSI episodes increased from Period 1 to Period 2 from 139/717 (19.4%) to 179/718 (24.9%) (p = 0.014), but HA-BSI attributable mortality remained unchanged (97/139 [69.8%] vs 118/179 [65.9%], p = 0.542). The in-vitro activity of piperacillin-tazobactam and amikacin declined during Period 2 (74.6% to 61.4%; p<0.001).

Conclusion

Although HA-BSI rates declined in the neonatal unit, antimicrobial resistance rates in BSI pathogens remained high. Continuous BSI surveillance is a valuable tool to detect changes in pathogen and AMR profiles and inform empiric antibiotic recommendations for neonatal units in resource-limited settings.

The Impact of the Implementation of Culture-based Antibiotic Policy on the Incidence of Nosocomial Infections in Neonates Hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a General Egyptian Hospital in Upper Egypt, 2016-2018

Nosocomial infections mainly are due to inefficient cleaning in association with the uncontrollable prescription of antimicrobials resulting in the emergence of multi-drug resistant pathogens in the hospital environment. Objectives:The study aims to evaluate the impact of the implementation of culture-guided antibiotic policy with strict infection control strategies on the occurrence of nosocomial infections and the resistance pattern ofthe isolated clinical and environmental pathogens. The study was done in 2 periods. Firstly, (August 2016 – April 2017), routine disinfection procedures and the applied antibiotic policy were evaluated. Secondly, according to the results a new antibiotic policy depending on the culture sensitivity results were implemented starting from June 2017 to February 2018 in association with strict infection control practices. As a result of this intervention, A change in the type of the isolated microorganisms was observed.Antibiotic resistance was decreased. Mortality rate was reduced from 14.1% to 9.5% of neonates with nosocomial infections, the number of the prescribed antibiotics didn’t exceed 4 antibiotics decreasing the overall cost for neonates’ therapy during their hospital stay. Each hospital should have its own antibiotic policy with the application of strict infection control strategies for the control of nosocomial infection.

Trends, risk factors and outcomes of healthcare-associated infections in a neonatal intensive care unit in Italy during 2013-2017

Background

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) occur frequently in intensive care units (NICUs). The aim of this study was to analyze the results of surveillance of HAIs in a III level NICU in Naples, Italy during 2013–2017 and to compare with those obtained during 2006–2010.

Methods

The surveillance included 1265 neonates of all birth weight (BW) classes with > 2 days NICU stay. Infections were defined using standard Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions adapted to neonatal pathology.

Results

A total of 125 HAIs were registered during 2013–2017 with a frequency of 9.9% and an incidence density of 3.2 per 1000 patient days. HAIs occurred in all BW classes with a decreasing trend from the lowest to the highest BW classes (p = < 0.001). Central line-associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) was the most frequent infection (69.6%), followed by ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) (20%), urinary tract infection (UTI) (8.8%) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (1.6%). Also, CLABSI and VAP incidence density decreased from lower to highest BW classes showing a significant trend (p = 0.007). Most frequent pathogens responsible for CLABSI were: Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CONS) (25.3%), Candida parapsilosis (21.8%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.7), Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.8%). No microbiological diagnosis was achieved for 20.7% of CLABSI. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (28%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (20%), and CONS (20%) were the most frequent pathogens responsible for VAP. CLABSI incidence density showed no differences between 2006 and 2010 and 2013–2017, while VAP incidence density for the 751–100 g BW class was higher during 2006–2010 than during 2013–2017 (p = 0.006). A higher incidence of the CLABSI caused by Gram positive bacteria (p = 0.002) or by undetermined etiology (p = 0.01) was observed during 2013–2017 than during 2006–2010, while a significant lower incidence of VAP caused by Gram-negative bacteria was found during 2013–2017 than during 2006–2010 (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

HAIs in the NICU developed in all BW classes with a decreasing trend from the lowest to the highest BW classes in both study periods. Differences in the aetiology of CLABSI and VAP were found between the two study periods. This reinforces the importance of HAIs surveillance protocol in the NICU, which monitors microbiological isolates and use of medical devices for all BW classes of neonates.

Multiple Postnatal Infections in Newborns Born Preterm Predict Delayed Maturation of Motor Pathways at Term-Equivalent Age with Poorer Motor Outcomes at 3 Years

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether the number of postnatal infections is associated with abnormal white matter maturation and poorer motor neurodevelopmental outcomes at 36 months of corrected age.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective longitudinal cohort study was undertaken of 219 newborns born preterm at 24-32 weeks of gestational age recruited between 2006 and 2013 with magnetic resonance imaging of the brain both early in life and at term-equivalent age. Postnatal infection was defined as any clinical infection or positive culture ≥72 hours after birth. White matter maturation was assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging, magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging, and tract-based spatial statistics. Neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed in 175 (82% of survivors) infants with Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-III composite scores and Peabody Developmental Motor Scales at 35 months of corrected age (IQR 34-37 months). Infection groups were compared via the Fisher exact test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Of 219 neonates born preterm (median gestational age 27.9 weeks), 109 (50%) had no postnatal infection, 83 (38%) had 1 or 2 infections, and 27 (12%) had ≥3 infections. Infants with postnatal infections had more cerebellar hemorrhage. Infants with ≥3 infections had lower N-acetylaspartate/choline in the white matter and basal ganglia regions, lower fractional anisotropy in the posterior limb of the internal capsule, and poorer maturation of the corpus callosum, optic radiations, and posterior limb of the internal capsule on tract-based spatial statistics analysis as well as poorer Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-III (P = .02) and Peabody Developmental Motor Scales, Second Edition, motor scores (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In newborns born preterm, ≥3 postnatal infections predict impaired development of the motor pathways and poorer motor outcomes in early childhood.

Healthcare associated infections in neonatal intensive care unit and its correlation with environmental surveillance

Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are frequent complications in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) with varying risk factors and bacteriological profile. There is paucity of literature comparing the bacteriological profile of organisms causing HAI with the environmental surveillance isolates. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate demographic profile, risk factors and outcome of HAI in NICU and correlate with environmental surveillance. Three hundred newborns with signs and symptoms of sepsis were enrolled in the study group and their profile, risk factors and outcome were compared with the control group. Univariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed. Environmental surveillance results were compared to the bacteriological profile of HAIs. We identified lower gestational age, male gender and apgar score less than 7 at 5min, use of peripheral vascular catheter & ventilator along with their duration as significant risk factors. Mortality rate was 29% in the study group (p<0.05). The HAI site distribution showed blood-stream infections (73%) to be the most common followed by pneumonia (12%) and meningitis (10%). Gram positive cocci were the most common isolates in HAI as well as environmental surveillance. The bacteriological profile of HAI correlates with the environmental surveillance report thus insisting for periodic surveillance and thereby avoiding irrational antibiotic usage.

Hospital-wide comparison of health care-associated infection among 8 intensive care units: A retrospective analysis for 2010-2015

BACKGROUND

Exploring the distribution of nosocomial pathogens among different categories of intensive care units (ICUs) is critical to improving the management of health care-associated infection (HAI). Despite both single- and multicenter studies, the nature of the variations of HAIs within various ICUs remains inadequately evaluated.

METHODS

Data on HAIs at our hospital during the period January 2010-December 2015 were collected from 8 ICUs, namely, respiratory, cardiovascular, neurology, neonatal, hematology, emergency, cardiothoracic surgery, and neurosurgery ICUs, at a tertiary hospital.

RESULTS

We observed a cumulative HAI incidence of 15.6/1,000 patient-days among 6,254 cases of infection at the hospital, as well as obvious interunit variations in HAI distribution. Acinetobacter baumannii was the leading organism of infection in almost every ICU, especially in emergency, neurosurgery, and neonatal ICUs. The most common pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the cardiothoracic surgery, emergency, and neonatal ICUs; Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli in the neurosurgery, emergency, neonatal, and neurology ICUs; and Candida albicans in both neurology and emergency ICUs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed that A baumannii and P aeruginosa were the most common pathogens associated with invasive operations, whereas K pneumoniae and E coli were the most common pathogens in the medical ICUs.

Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia in Newborns with Birth Weight Less Than 1500 Grams: Risk Factors and Causes

Low birth weight newborns (≤1500 grams) are at a high risk of acquiring hospital infections due to the immaturity of the immune system, lack of efficient structural barriers, and an incomplete development of endogenous microbial flora.

The aim of this study was to reveal the potential risk factors for hospital-acquired pneumonia in low birth weight newborns.

This study was a prospective cohort design with a nested case-control study and was conducted between January 1st, 2012 and June 30th, 2015 at the Neonatology Department, Clinical Centre Kragujevac, Serbia. There were 1140 newborns hospitalized at the Neonatology Department for longer than 48 hours during the study period, and 169 of them (14.82%) weighed less than 1500 grams at birth. In total, 73 (43.19%) newborns with low birth weights developed HIs. The most prevalent HI was hospital pneumonia (n=64, 87.67%).

Although univariate analyses identified many risk factors with a significant influence on the occurrence of hospital pneumonia, multivariate analysis identified only the following two independent risk factors for hospital pneumonia in newborns with birth weights below 1500 grams: mechanical ventilation (p=0.003, OR=68.893, 95% CI=4.285-1107.699) and longer hospitalization (p=0.003, OR=1.052, 95% CI=1.017-1.088). Almost all of the pathogens isolated from the patients with pneumonia were gram-negative bacteria (98.50%). More than half of all of the isolates were Acinetobacter spp (37.50%) and Enterobacter spp (18.75%).

Our study showed that mechanical ventilation and prolonged hospitalization were significant risk factors for the development of hospital pneumonia in newborns with birth weights below 1500 grams.

Device-associated pneumonia of very low birth weight infants in Polish Neonatal Intensive Care Units

PURPOSE

Late-Onset Pneumonia (LO-PNEU) is still the most important complication associated with the hospitalization of infants with very low birth weight (<1501g). The purpose of this paper is to summarize the results of an ongoing surveillance program defining LO-PNEU as associated or not associated with respiratory support in the NICU and distribution of causative pathogens from the Polish Neonatology Surveillance Network (PNSN).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Surveillance of infections was conducted in the years 2009-2011 at six Polish NICUs.

RESULTS

The incidence was 3.1/1000 NICU patient days (pds). The mean gestational age and birth weight among infants with LO-PNEU were significantly lower. The VAP incidence was of 18.2/1000 NICU pds for mechanically ventilated (MV) infants, while the rates for those receiving only CPAP were as low as 7.7/1000 NICU pds. MV significantly increased the risk of PNEU, but MV or CPAP for <10 days did not increase the risk of LO-PNEU. Significantly associated with LO-PNEU was the use of central or peripheral venous catheters and total parenteral nutrition for longer periods. Microorganisms isolated in cases of LO-PNEU were Gram-positive cocci (53.5%) and Gram-negative rods, with predominating E. coli. Non fermentative bacilli were significantly more frequent in cases of VAP than in other cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Observed incidence rates associated with VAP and CPAP-PNEU, were higher than in other national surveillance systems and expressing the feasibility of lowering the risk of LO-PNEU and increasing patient safety. The incidence of pneumonia was found to be lower when using CPAP as compared to using MV.

Incidence, Etiology and Risk Factors Associated with Neonatal Healthcare-Associated Conjunctivitis: A Prospective Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

INTRODUCTION

Healthcare-associated conjunctivitis (HAC) can lead to serious sequelae including blindness. We conducted a one-year prospective study to determine the epidemiology of neonatal HAC at a tertiary-care hospital in India.

METHODS

From the neonates fulfilling a set of predefined inclusion criteria, cases of HAC were diagnosed based on CDC guidelines. Conjunctival swabs, obtained from neonates with suggestive clinical signs, were processed using standard protocols. Twenty-eight potential risk factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

We detected 24 cases of HAC among 591 enrolled neonates, with Escherichia coli being the most frequently isolated microorganism. On multivariate analysis, intubation at birth (p = 0.046) and orogastric feeding (p = 0.029) had a statistically significant association with neonatal HAC. Average hospitalization increased from 9.6 to 20.8 days for neonates diagnosed with HAC.

CONCLUSION

A standardized case-definition and physician awareness of potential serious sequelae would help improve detection rates and timely institution of therapy. Hand hygiene could help control the menace of neonatal HAC.

Is family integrated care in neonatal intensive care units feasible and good for preterm infants in China: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial

Background

By changing the paradigm of neonatal intensive care and integrating parents into the care team, the ‘family integrated care’ (FICare) model developed in Canada ensures that infants receive more consistent care and parents are better able to care for their infants within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and at home. However, Chinese health policy dictates that parents are not allowed into the NICU during their infant’s stay, which inhibits this type of parent–infant interaction and may affect infant outcomes. This project aims to demonstrate that allowing parents to care for their newborn infants in the NICU improves the medical outcomes of infants.

Methods/Design

This cluster randomized controlled trial will evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of FICare in six Chinese tertiary-level NICUs in China – three ‘intervention’ and three ‘control’ NICUs. The study steps are: (1) planning and preparation; (2) staff recruitment and training; (3) pilot study in two centers; (4) interim analysis and confirmation of sample size for main study; (5) implementation of main study; (6) data analysis and preparation and publication of study reports. The primary outcome measure is duration of hospital stay from admission to discharge. Secondary outcome measures are: (1) clinical outcomes, such as nosocomial infection, (2) weight gain, (3) breastfeeding, (4) time to full feed, and (5) maternal stress.

Discussion

This study will assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of FICare in China. By establishing that FICare is a practical model of NICU care for stable preterm infants in China, this project will have a significant impact on health outcomes, medical practice and policy, and the cost of medical care. The approach used in this project could be transferable to many other areas of medical care, such as pediatrics, chronic care, and geriatrics. Data in this project can be used to inform health policy in NICUs across China so that parents are allowed to enter the NICU and be at their infant’s bedside during the baby’s hospitalization, and modifying the design of NICUs in China to facilitate the participation of parents in caring for their newborns.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR-TRC-14004736

Health care-associated infection surveillance in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit: A prospective clinical study after moving to a new building

BACKGROUND

There are very few prospective clinical studies on neonatal health care-associated infection (HAI) surveillance. HAI surveillance helps reduce not only mortality, but also morbidity, length of hospital stay, and health care costs.

METHODS

This prospective clinical study covered a period of 12 months in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). HAI rates were calculated using different denominators: number of patients hospitalized in the NICU, number of patient-days, and number of specific device-days.

RESULTS

The HAI rate was 18%, and the incidence density was 17/1,000 patient-days. The most common HAI was bloodstream infection (n = 34; 50%). The most common pathogen was coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS; 54.9%) in gram-positive bacteria and in general. Methicillin resistance was 96.4% for CoNS. Klebsiella spp (13.7%) was the most common gram-negative bacteria. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase positivity was 14.3% for Klebsiella spp and 25% for Escherichia coli. HAI-related mortality was 0.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

NICUs should perform their own HAI surveillance with prospective clinical design. Attention paid to handwashing, disinfection and sanitizing, complying with the terms of asepsis, extending in-service training, increasing the number of medical staff, preventing frequent changes in health care staff positions, and improving physical environmental conditions in NICUs might eventually decrease HAI rates.

Nosocomial infections in a neonatal intensive care unit in South Brazil

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe the incidence and epidemiology of nosocomial infection in newborns who were admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit in a hospital in south Santa Catarina, Brazil.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted for 1 year among 239 neonates who remained as in-patients 48 hours after admission. The criteria that were used to diagnose infection were in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Health Surveillance Agency.

Results

The incidence of nosocomial infection was 45.8%. The primary reasons for admission were primary bloodstream infection (80.7%) and pneumonia (6.7%). Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the most commonly identified agent in the blood cultures and in the hospital unit. Prematurity was the most prevalent reason for admission. The general mortality rate was 12.1%, and mortality from nosocomial infection was 33.8%.

Conclusions

The incidence of nosocomial infection in the hospital unit was higher than rates that have been reported in other national studies. The major types of nosocomial infection were primary bloodstream infection and pneumonia.

Update on infection control challenges in special pediatric populations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Compared with adults, neonatal and pediatric populations are especially vulnerable patients who have specific diagnostic and therapeutic differences; therefore, the standard infection control practices designed for adults are sometimes not effective or need modifications to work. This review focuses on the recent literature addressing the challenges and successes in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in children.

RECENT FINDINGS

Improving the implementation of pediatric versions of preventive bundles focusing on proper catheter insertion and maintenance, mainly as a part of a larger multimodal strategy, is effective in reducing the central-line-associated bloodstream infections in neonatal and pediatric populations including oncology patients. Appropriate feeding, antimicrobial stewardship, and infection control measures should be combined in reducing necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm neonates. Implementing a multimodal bundle strategy adapted for pediatric population is successful in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia. Appropriate use of antimicrobial prophylaxis remains the cornerstone for preventing surgical-site infections irrespective of age, with few additional effective adjuvant preventive practices in specific pediatric patients.

SUMMARY

Several evidence-based practices are effective in reducing the incidence and the impact of HAIs in children; however, proper implementation remains a challenge. Additionally, several adult preventive practices are still unestablished in children and need further thorough examination.

Surveillance of healthcare-associated infections in a neonatal intensive care unit in Italy during 2006-2010

BACKGROUND

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a frequent complication associated with hospitalization of infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The aim of this study was to evaluate and describe the results of surveillance of HAIs in a III level NICU in Naples, Italy during 2006-2010.

METHODS

The surveillance covered 1,699 neonates of all birth weight (BW) classes with >2 days NICU stay. Infections were defined using standard Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions adapted to neonatal pathology and were considered to be healthcare-associated if they developed >2 days after NICU admission.

RESULTS

One hundred-fifty-three HAIs were diagnosed with a frequency of 9% and an incidence density of 3.5 per 1000 days of hospital stay. HAIs developed in all BW classes, but patients weighing≤1000 g at birth were more affected with a decreasing trend from the lowest to the highest BW classes. Sepsis proved to be the most frequent infection (44.4%), followed by urinary tract infection (UTI) (28.8%), pneumonia (25.5%) and meningitis (1.3%). Device associated infections (i.e. central line-associated bloodstream infections (BSIs), umbilical catheter-associated BSI and ventilator associated pneumonias (VAPs) represented 64.1% of all HAIs. Most frequent pathogens responsible for all types of infections were: P. aeruginosa (17%), C. parapsilosis (16.3%), E. coli (13.1%), C. albicans (10.5%), non- extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) K. pneumoniae (7.8%), and coagulase-negative Staphylococci (5.2%). No microbiological diagnosis was achieved for 6.5% of infections.

CONCLUSIONS

HAIs developed in all BW classes but low BW neonates were at major risk to acquire HAIs in our NICU. Use of central line-, umbilical-catheter and mechanical ventilation was associated with higher risk of infection. Our findings highlight the importance of an extensive surveillance approach in the NICU setting, which includes all BW classes of neonates and monitors infections associated with the use of medical devices.

Successful reduction in central line-associated bloodstream infections in a Chinese neonatal intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Few data are available on central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in Chinese neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The aims of this study were to characterize CLABSIs among neonates in a Chinese NICU and evaluate the impact of a multifaceted evidence-based practice for improving quality program to decrease CLABSI.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective before-after intervention study with a 1-year follow-up among patients with central lines at the NICU of the Children's Hospital of Fudan University between January 2008 and December 2010. The study was conducted in 3 phases: before, during, and after the intervention. A multifaceted infection control program was introduced in phase 2 with successive surveillance. CLABSIs were prospectively monitored and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 171 patients with central lines (CLs) were observed; 29 of them developed CLABSI corresponding to 7.35 per 1,000 catheter days, with a CL utilization ratio of 37.9%. Overall CLABSI rate decreased gradually from 16.7 per 1,000 CL days in phase 1 to 7.6 per 1,000 CL days in phase 2 (P = .08) to 5.2 per 1,000 CL days in phase 3 (P < .01). Gram-negative bacterium (54.5%) was the predominant pathogen in CLABSIs.

CONCLUSION

A multifaceted infection control program is effective in reducing the CLABSI rate among neonates. Such interventions could be extended to other resource-limited countries.

Health care-acquired infections in neonatal intensive care units: risk factors and etiology

A 1-year prospective cohort study of health care-acquired infections was conducted at the neonatal intensive care unit of the University Clinical Centre Kragujevac, Serbia. The incidence rate of neonates with health care-acquired infections was 18.6%, and the incidence rate of the infections themselves was 19.4%. The incidence density of the health care-acquired infections was 9.1 per 1,000 patient days. The independent risk factors for health care-acquired infections were birth weight, length of hospitalization, duration of mechanical ventilation, and Apgar score. More than half of all isolated microorganisms were Klebsiella-Enterobacter (39.3%) and Escherichia coli (25.0%).

Surveillance of health care-associated infections in a tertiary hospital neonatal intensive care unit in Egypt: 1-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Reported rates of neonatal health care-associated infections (HAIs) in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have risen rapidly in recent years. Little data are available in Egypt, however. The aim of the present study was to determine the incidence of and risk factors for HAIs in the NICU of Ain Shams University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

METHODS

A prospective study was carried out on all neonates admitted in the NICU of Ain Shams University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2012. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria were followed for identifying HAIs.

RESULTS

A total of 434 neonates were enrolled in the study. The cumulative incidence of HAIs in the NICU was 28%. Bloodstream infections accounted for 85% of HAI episodes; pneumonia, for 10%. The most common organism isolated was Klebsiella spp. The main risk factors identified on multivariable analysis were gestational age <38 weeks (relative risk [RR], 1.63), birth weight <1,500 g (RR, 1.39), mechanical ventilation (RR, 1.74), and surgical procedures (RR, 1.65). The mortality rate attributed to HAIs was 11.75%, and the extra hospital length of stay attributed to HAIs was 8 days.

CONCLUSION

The high incidence of HAI identified in the study NICU mandates more vigorous infection control interventions.

Bloodstream infections and antimicrobial resistance patterns in a South African neonatal intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Bloodstream infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) worldwide. Commonly isolated NICU pathogens are increasingly resistant to standard antimicrobial treatment regimes.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of this study was to determine the burden of bloodstream infections (BSI) in an NICU in a low-to-middle-income country and to describe the spectrum of pathogens isolated together with their drug susceptibility patterns.

METHODS

This retrospective, descriptive study included NICU patients admitted to the Tygerberg Children's Hospital, Cape Town, between 1 January and 31 December 2008. All blood culture samples submitted to the reference laboratory were extracted and clinical data on patients were obtained by hospital record review.

RESULTS

There were 78 culture-confirmed episodes of BSI in 54/503 (11%) patients admitted; median gestational age was 31 weeks (IQR 29-37) and birth weight 1370 g (IQR 1040-2320). Common isolates included coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (22/78, 28%), Klebsiella spp. (17/78, 22%), Acinetobacter spp. (14/78, 18%), Candida spp. (9/78, 11·5%) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (5/78, 6%). There was a predominance of gram-negative organisms (38/78, 48·7%). All Staphylococcus aureus isolates were methicillin-resistant and 59% of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers. Acinetobacter baumanii isolates showed low susceptibility to the aminoglycosides, carbapenems and cephalosporins. Of 54 infants admitted to the NICU with BSI, 25 (46%) died; 9/25 deaths (36%) were attributable solely to infection.

CONCLUSION

Compared with overall mortality in the NICU, that attributable solely or partly to BSI was high. Many bacterial BSI isolates were resistant to current empiric antibiotic regimens. Regular microbiological and clinical surveillance of BSI in NICUs is required to inform appropriate antibiotic protocols and monitor the impact of infection prevention strategies.

Coagulase-negative staphylococcus sepsis in preterm infants and long-term neurodevelopmental outcome

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of Coagulase-negative staphylococcus (CoNS) sepsis in preterm infants on the neurodevelopmental outcomes at 30 to 42 months corrected age (CA).

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study. All preterm infants born at <29 weeks gestational age between 1995 and 2008 and had a neurodevelopmetnal assessment at 30 to 42 months CA were eligible. The neurodevelopmetnal outcomes of infants exposed to CoNS sepsis were compared with infants unexposed to any type of neonatal sepsis.

RESULT

A total of 105 eligible infants who were exposed to CoNS sepsis were compared with 227 infants with no neonatal sepsis. In univariate analysis, infants with CoNS sepsis were more likely to have total major disability (odds ratio (OR)=1.9; 95% CI: 1.07 to 3.38) and cognitive delay (OR=2.53; 1.26 to 5.14).There was no significant difference in the incidence of cerebral palsy, blindness and deafness between the two groups. After correcting for potential confounders, CoNS sepsis was associated with increased risk of cognitive delay (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)= 2.23; 95% CI 1.01 to 4.9), but not with the total major disability (aOR=1.14; 95% CI: 0.55 to 2.34).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that CoNS sepsis in preterm infants might be associated with increased risk for cognitive delay at 36 months CA.

A systematic review of strategies for reporting of neonatal hospital-acquired bloodstream infections

OBJECTIVE

To examine the reporting of hospital-acquired bloodstream infection (HABSI) and central line-associated BSI (CLABSI) rates in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

DESIGN

Systematic review of evidence published after 2000 reporting HABSI cumulative incidence, crude HABSI and/or CLABSI rate and total patient-days and/or central line-days for single NICU.

SETTING

Inpatient.

PATIENTS

Neonates admitted to NICU.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

To consider the reporting of and relationship between cumulative incidence of BSI and HABSI and/or CLABSI rates.

RESULTS

18 studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. There was a wide variability in reporting of HABSI indicators and risk-adjustment strategies with reported crude HABSI and/or CLABSI rates showing an approximately sevenfold variation between centres. Information about NICU size and level of care was not always available. Many studies provided insufficient information about case mix, such as surgical care provision and prematurity. The proportion of total patient-days that were central venous catheters (CVC)-days ranged from 11.7% to 85.4%. Only six studies reported HABSI and CLABSI incidence. Comparing HABSI and CLABSI ranking, we found a relationship between rates.

CONCLUSIONS

We found significant variability in HABSI rate reporting. Although there appears to be an association between CLABSI and HABSI rates, non-CVC-related BSIs are likely to be highly relevant in some NICUs. If confirmed, and given CLABSI rates are more challenging to collect, it may be more appropriate to use HABSI rates for monitoring NICU healthcare-associated infection (HAI) in some settings. A European network of NICUs using a standardised methodology is required to determine the feasibility and reliability of different risk-adjusted measured of HAI rates.

Neonatal host defense against Staphylococcal infections

Preterm infants are especially susceptible to late-onset sepsis that is often due to Gram-positive bacterial infections resulting in substantial morbidity and mortality. Herein, we will describe neonatal innate immunity to Staphylococcus spp. comparing differences between preterm and full-term newborns with adults. Newborn innate immunity is distinct demonstrating diminished skin integrity, impaired Th1-polarizing responses, low complement levels, and diminished expression of plasma antimicrobial proteins and peptides, especially in preterm newborns. Characterization of distinct aspects of the neonatal immune response is defining novel approaches to enhance host defense to prevent and/or treat staphylococcal infection in this vulnerable population.

Risk factors and lethality of laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection caused by non-skin contaminant pathogens in neonates

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate risk factors and lethality of late onset laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection (LCBI) in a Brazilian neonatal unit for progressive care (NUPC).

METHODS

This was a case-control study, performed from 2008 to 2012. Cases were defined as all newborns with late onset LCBI, excluding patients with isolated common skin contaminants. Controls were newborns who showed no evidence of late onset LCBI, matched by weight and time of permanence in the NUPC. Variables were obtained in the Hospital Infection Control Committee (HICC) database. Analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The chi-squared test was used, and statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05, followed by multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

50 patients with late onset LCBI were matched with 100 patients without late onset LCBI. In the group of patients with late onset LCBI, a significant higher proportion of patients who underwent surgical procedures (p = 0.001) and who used central venous catheter (CVC) (p = 0.012) and mechanical ventilation (p = 0.001) was identified. In multivariate analysis, previous surgery and the use of CVC remained significantly associated with infection (p = 0.006 and p = 0.047; OR: 4.47 and 8.99, respectively). Enterobacteriacea was identified in 14 cases, with three (21.4%) deaths, and Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 20 cases, with three (15%) deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical procedures and CVC usage were significant risk factors for LCBI. Therefore, prevention practices for safe surgery and CVC insertion and manipulation are essential to reduce these infections, in addition to training and continuing education to surgical and assistance teams.

Infecções relacionadas à assistência a saúde baseada em critérios internacionais, realizada em unidade neonatal de cuidados progressivos de referência de Belo Horizonte, MG

OBJETIVO: Descrever a ocorrência de infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde em uma unidade neonatal de serviço público de referência em Belo Horizonte, MG, baseando-se em critérios internacionais. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo descritivo, realizado por busca ativa, na Unidade Neonatal de Cuidados Progressivos do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HC/UFMG), de 2008 a 2009. A notificação de infecções baseou-se nos critérios do National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). O banco de dados e análise foi realizado em programa interno do serviço. RESULTADOS: Foram notificados 325 episódios de infecção nos recém-nascidos, com densidade de incidência de 22,8/1.000 pacientes-dia e incidência proporcional geral de infecção de 36,7%. A sepse foi a principal infecção (62,5%) notificada. A densidade de incidência de infecções foi maior em neonatos com peso menor que 750g (42,4/1.000 pacientes-dia). Observou-se 18,15 episódios de Sepse Relacionada a Cateter/1.000 Cateter Venoso Central-dia e 19,29/1.000 episódios de Sepse Relacionada a Cateter Umbilical/1.000 Cateter umbilical-dia. Em 122 (37,5%) casos de infecção notificada houve isolamento de microorganismos, predominando Staphylococcus coagulase negativo e Staphylococcus aureus (51 casos). A mortalidade e letalidade foram 4,3% e 17,12%, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO: A utilização de critérios padronizados para notificação de infecções é necessária para a construção de indicadores em neonatologia, que são escassos no país e ressaltam a necessidade de avaliação dos critérios nacionais propostos pela Agencia Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA).

Outbreak of ampicillin/piperacillin-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU): investigation and control measures

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a frequent cause of infectious outbreaks in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). The aim of this paper is to describe an outbreak occurred in a 13-bed NICU and the control measures adopted in order to interrupt the chain of transmission. We described the microbiological investigations, the NICU staff compliance to the infection control measures by means of a specifically designed check-list and the control measures adopted. Six cases of primary bloodstream infections sustained by ampicillin/piperacillin-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae were observed over a two-month period. One culture obtained from a 12% saccarose multiple-dose solution allowed the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae. During the inspections performed by the Hospital Infection Control Team, using the check-list for the evaluation of the NICU staff compliance to the infection control measures, several breaches in the infection control policy were identified and control measures were adopted. In our case the definition of a specific check-list led to the adoption of the correct control measures. Further studies would be helpful in order to develop a standard check-list able to identify critical flows in the adhesion to the guidelines. It could be used in different NICUs and allow to obtain reproducible levels of infection control.

Susceptibility of bacterial etiological agents to commonly-used antimicrobial agents in children with sepsis at the Tamale Teaching Hospital

BACKGROUND

Bloodstream infections in neonates and infants are life-threatening emergencies. Identification of the common bacteria causing such infections and their susceptibility patterns will provide necessary information for timely intervention. This study is aimed at determining the susceptibilities of bacterial etiological agents to commonly-used antimicrobial agents for empirical treatment of suspected bacterial septicaemia in children.

METHODS

This is a hospital based retrospective analysis of blood cultures from infants to children up to 14 years of age with preliminary diagnosis of sepsis and admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Paediatric Wards of the Teaching Hospital Tamale from July 2011 to January 2012.

RESULTS

Out of 331 blood specimens cultured, the prevalence of confirmed bacterial sepsis was 25.9% (86/331). Point prevalence for confirmed cases from NICU was 44.4% (28/63) and 21.6% (58/268) from the Paediatric ward. Gram positive cocci (GPC) were the predominant isolates with Coagulase positive (32.2%) and Coagulase-negative (28.7%) Staphylococci accounting for 60.9% of the total isolates. Gram negative rods (GNR) comprised 39.1% of all isolates with Klebsiella, E.coli and Salmonella being the most common organisms isolated. Klebsiella was the most frequent GNR from the NICU and Salmonella typhi was predominantly isolated from the paediatric ward. Acinetobacter showed 100.0% susceptibility to Ceftriaxone and Cefotaxime but was resistant (100.0%) to Ampicillin, Tetracycline and Cotrimoxazole. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella were 80.0% and 91.0% susceptible to Ceftriaxone and Cefotaxime respectively. Klebsiella species showed 8.3% susceptibility to Tetracycline but was resistant to Ampicillin and Cotrimoxazole. Escherichia coli showed 40.0% susceptibility to Ampicillin, Chloramphenicol and Cotrimoxazole; 20.0% susceptibility to Tetracycline and 80.0% susceptible to Gentamicin and Cefuroxime. Coagulase negative Staphylococci was susceptible to Gentamicin (72.0%) but Coagulase positive Staphylococci showed intermediate sensitivity to Gentamicin (42.9%).

CONCLUSION

Coagulase Negative, Coagulase Positive Staphylococci, Salmonella and Klebsiella were the aetiological agents of bloodstream infection among children at TTH. While gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria showed low susceptibility to Ampicillin, Tetracycline and Cotrimoxazole, the GNR were susceptible to Gentamicin and third-generation cephalosporins.

Healthcare-associated infections in a neonatal intensive care unit

INTRODUCTION

Healthcare-associated infection is a common problem in patients from neonatal intensive care units and it is one of the leading causes of death in this group of patients. Healthcare-associated infections are associated with increases in mortality, morbidity, and prolonged length of hospital stay. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence, clinical presentation, mortality and aetiology of healthcare-associated infections in newborns in a neonatal intensive care unit between 2005 and 2010.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The research involved documentation of 2610 neonates hospitalized in this period in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Dr Jan Biziel University Hospital No. 2 in Bydgoszcz. The incidence, clinical presentation, mortality and causative factors of healthcare-associated infections were assessed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of healthcare-associated infections was 7.32%. The most frequent healthcare-associated infections were bloodstream infection (65.4%) and urinary tract infection (22.5%). The mortality rate was 2.1%. The most frequent pathogens were coagulase-negative staphylococci (36.1%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (29.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections in the analysed department is low, taking into consideration the specificity of the department. There is a necessity to establish convenient definitions of various kinds of healthcare-associated infecions in neonates, especially those born preterm.

Reduction of catheter-associated bloodstream infections through procedures in newborn babies admitted in a university hospital intensive care unit in Brazil

INTRODUCTION

Catheter-associated bloodstream infection (CA-BSI) is the most common nosocomial infection in neonatal intensive care units. There is evidence that care bundles to reduce CA-BSI are effective in the adult literature. The aim of this study was to reduce CA-BSI in a Brazilian neonatal intensive care unit by means of a care bundle including few strategies or procedures of prevention and control of these infections.

METHODS

An intervention designed to reduce CA-BSI with five evidence-based procedures was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of sixty-seven (26.7%) CA-BSIs were observed. There were 46 (32%) episodes of culture-proven sepsis in group preintervention (24.1 per 1,000 catheter days [CVC days]). Neonates in the group after implementation of the intervention had 21 (19.6%) episodes of CA-BSI (14.9 per 1,000 CVC days). The incidence of CA-BSI decreased significantly after the intervention from the group preintervention and postintervention (32% to 19.6%, 24.1 per 1,000 CVC days to 14.9 per 1,000 CVC days, p=0.04). In the multiple logistic regression analysis, the use of more than 3 antibiotics and length of stay >8 days were independent risk factors for BSI.

CONCLUSIONS

A stepwise introduction of evidence-based intervention and intensive and continuous education of all healthcare workers are effective in reducing CA-BSI.

Bacterial bloodstream infections in neonates in a developing country

Background. Ongoing surveillance of antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of bacteria isolated in bloodstream infections guides empiric antibiotic therapy in neonatal sepsis. Methods. Sensitivity profiles of neonatal bacterial bloodstream infections in a tertiary hospital were reviewed between 01/06/2009 and 30/06/2010 . Results. There were 246 episodes of bloodstream infection in 181 individuals—(14.06 episodes in10.35 patients/1000 patient days or 14.4 episodes in 10.6 babies/1000 live births. The majority were (93.5%) were late onset and most (54.9%) were gram positive. There were 2.28 sepsis-related deaths /1000 patient days or 2.3/1000 live births. Death was significantly associated with gram-negative infections (P < 0.001), multiple gestation (P < 0.001), shock (P = 0.008), NEC (P = 0.002), and shorter duration of hospital stay (P < 0.001). Coagulase-negative staphylococcus was isolated in 19.1%, K. pneumoniae ESBL in 12.1%, and A. baumanni in 10.9%. S. agalactiae predominated in early onset sepsis. Methicillin resistance was present in 86% of CoNS and 69.5% of S. aureus; 46% enterococcal isolates were ampicillin resistant. The majority (65%) of K. pneumoniae isolates were ESBL producers. Ampicillin resistance was present in 96% of E. coli. Conclusions. Penicillin and an aminoglycoside would be suitable empiric therapy for early onset sepsis and meropenem with gentamycin or ceftazidime with amikacin for late onset sepsis.

Antibiotic therapy in neonatal and pediatric septic shock

Severe sepsis accounts for nearly 4,500 deaths (mortality rate 10%), and is responsible for nearly $2 billion annual healthcare expenditure in the United States. Early and speedy treatment of critically ill septic patients can halt or reduce the likelihood of physiologic progression to multi-system organ failure. A cornerstone of this therapeutic strategy is antibiotic administration. In this review, we discuss the empirical treatment strategies for the treatment of early and late neonatal sepsis, along with pediatric sepsis. Furthermore, we discuss the rationale that underlies the adoption of such treatment strategies. The present article also discusses the emergence of multi-drug organisms as the causative agents for sepsis, i.e. methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), resistant enterococci and Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemases (KPC).

Effect of skin-to-skin contact on preterm infant skin barrier function and hospital-acquired infection

Background

The preterm infants' skin is structurally and functionally immature at birth because of immature stratum corneum barrier function, leading to problems with fluid loses, thermoregulation, and infection. Two parameters of barrier function can be non-invasively assessed: Stratum Corneum Hydration (SCH) and Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL). Skin-to-Skin Care (SSC) is the proposed independent variable that might affect barrier function by decreasing TEWL and increasing SCH, thereby improving stratum corneum barrier function and consequently decreasing the rate of infection. No study of SSC's effects on TEWL and SCH of preterm infants could be found. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of 5 daily Skin-to-Skin Contact sessions on infant skin hydration (SCH), transepidermal evaporated water loss (TEWL), and on SCH when TEWL was controlled, and on the presence of hospital acquired infection.

Methods

A one-group pretest-test-posttest design with 10 preterm infants (28 - 30 wks GA < 32 wks postmenstrual age, and no infection at entry). Test = 90 minutes of SSC; pre-test and post-test = 30 minutes each of prone positioning in an incubator. SCH and TEWL were taken on Days 1 and 5 at the beginning, middle and end of each period using Multi-Probe Adaptor. A 3 X 3 X 2 Repeated Measures Mixed Models Design, including a covariate, was used to analyze level of Skin Hydration. Specifically, the model tested comparisons in SCH made across repetitions, time, and days, as well as all possible interactions while controlling for TEWL. Descriptive statistics described the number of positive blood cultures during hospitalization and the presence of infections four weeks post-discharge.

Results

Significant differences in skin hydration were found across TIME (Pre-SSC, SSC, Post-SSC) (F = 21.86; p < 0.001). One infant had a positive blood culture during hospitalization; no infants had signs of infection by 4 weeks post-discharge.

Conclusions

The study has begun fulfilling the recommendation that SSC be tested as a strategy to improve skin hydration, but reveals that evaporative loss may be higher during SSC than during incubator care, and that the higher transepidermal evaporated water loss values may not necessarily be detrimental because few infections occurred even in its presence. A definitive randomized controlled trial is recommended.

Keywords

Skin-to-skin contact; Skin hydration; Transepidermal water loss; Infection; Preterm

Reduction in coagulase-negative staphylococcus infection rates in the NICU using evidence-based research

Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS) bloodstream infection is the most common cause of sepsis in the NICU and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. There is evidence that hand hygiene using an alcohol-based gel and wearing gloves during patient care, management of central and peripheral intravenous lines using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, and a closed medication administration system can reduce the incidence to CoNS sepsis in the (NICU). To successfully apply the evidence and decrease the CoNS infection rate, a systematic process is necessary. One approach to process change that significantly reduced the CoNS infection rate in a health care system with two Level III NICUs included using system thinking; working within a multidisciplinary team; using evidence to revise, develop, and implement policies and procedures; developing staff education programs; and monitoring and providing feedback to all staff members.

Healthcare-associated infections in a neonatal intensive care unit in Turkey in 2008: incidence and risk factors, a prospective study

In this study, we have prospectively recorded healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in NICU and found incidence density as 18 infections per 1000 patient days. Of the infections, 51.3% was bacteriemia (BSI), and 45.1% was ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Gram-negative microorganisms were predominant in VAP and Staphylococcus epidermidis was the leading microorganism (53.0% of BSIs) in BSIs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed the importance of hood O(2) use in days (RR: 1.3) and total parenteral nutrition use in days (RR: 1.09) for BSIs. Umbilical arterial catheterization in days (RR: 1.94), ventilator use in days (RR: 1.05), chest tube (RR: 12.55), orogastric feeding (RR: 3.32) and total parenteral nutrition in days (RR: 1.05) were found to be significantly associated with VAP. In conclusion, incidence density in our unit is high and Gram-negative rods are predominant similar to developing countries. These results strongly suggest improving measures of prevention and control of HAIs in the unit.

Gestational age as a single predictor of health care-associated bloodstream infections in neonatal intensive care unit patients

Neonates rank among those at highest risk for health care-associated bloodstream infections (BSIs), which are linked to high morbidity and mortality rates. The importance of surveillance in preventing BSIs has been reported; however, a comparison of rates between different institution depends on methods used for risk adjustment and on factors identified as associated with infection. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different stratification models in identifying neonates at risk for health care-associated sepsis. An observational prospective study was performed. The effectiveness of risk stratification models was assessed by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Our findings suggest the potential role of gestational age as a simple classification criteria for identifying patients at risk for BSI.

Human neonatal peripheral blood leukocytes demonstrate pathogen-specific coordinate expression of TLR2, TLR4/MD2, and MyD88 during bacterial infection in vivo

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play important roles in infection. We have previously reported TLR2 is up-regulated in neonatal Gram-positive (G+) bacteremia, whereas TLR4 is up-regulated in neonatal Gram-negative (G-) bacteremia. For functional signaling, TLR4 requires myeloid differentiation (MD)-2, and both TLR2 and TLR4 signal need myeloid differentiation factor (MyD88). However, it is unknown whether newborns can enhance expression of MD-2 and MyD88 with bacterial infection in coordination with TLR expression. We characterized neonatal peripheral blood leukocyte expression of MD-2 and MyD88 in relation to TLR2/4 in newborns. TLR2 mRNA expression by PBMCs and TLR2 protein expression by monocytes and granulocytes were significantly increased in the G+ bacteremia group. TLR4 mRNA on PMBCs and protein expression on monocytes and granulocytes were significantly increased in the G- bacterial group. Remarkably, although, MyD88 mRNA was increased in all patients with documented bacterial infection and correlated with both TLR2 and TLR4, MD-2 mRNA was selectively increased in G- bacterial group, wherein it correlated with TLR4 but not with TLR2 mRNA. Our findings demonstrate that during bacterial infection in vivo, newborns selectively and coordinately amplify the TLR2-MyD88 pathway in G+ bacterial infection and the TLR4/MD2/MyD88 pathway in G- bacterial infection, suggesting key roles for innate immune pathway in neonatal responses to bacterial infection.

Use of rifampin in persistent coagulase negative staphylococcal bacteremia in neonates

BACKGROUND

Coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) are the most common cause of neonatal sepsis in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). A minority of neonates does not respond to vancomycin therapy and develops persistent bacteremia, which may be treated with rifampin. We evaluated the use of rifampin in persistent CoNS bacteremia.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 137 neonates with CoNS bacteremia during admission to a tertiary NICU between July 2006 and July 2009. Main outcome measures were total duration of bacteremia and the adequacy of vancomycin and rifampin therapy.

RESULTS

137/1696 (8.0%) neonates developed a CoNS bacteremia. Eighteen were treated with rifampin because of persistent bacteremia (3 positive blood cultures at least 48 hours apart with clinical symptoms) or (a serious suspicion of) an intravascular thrombus. Duration of bacteremia prior to rifampin therapy (8.0 ± 3.6 days) was positively correlated (p < 0.001) to the total duration of bacteremia (10.3 ± 3.7 days). After starting rifampin therapy C-reactive protein (CRP) levels of all neonates declined and blood cultures became sterile after 2.3 ± 1.6 days. Vancomycin levels were not consistently measured in all neonates, resulting in late detection of subtherapeutic trough levels.

CONCLUSION

Rifampin may be effective in the treatment of persistent CoNS infections in neonates. Outcome may be improved by adequate monitoring of vancomycin trough levels.