SHEA/APIC guideline: infection prevention and control in the long-term care facility, July 2008

The quality of care delivered to residents in long-term care in Australia: an indicator-based review of resident records (CareTrack Aged study)

BACKGROUND

This study estimated the prevalence of evidence-based care received by a population-based sample of Australian residents in long-term care (LTC) aged ≥ 65 years in 2021, measured by adherence to clinical practice guideline (CPG) recommendations.

METHODS

Sixteen conditions/processes of care amendable to estimating evidence-based care at a population level were identified from prevalence data and CPGs. Candidate recommendations (n = 5609) were extracted from 139 CPGs which were converted to indicators. National experts in each condition rated the indicators via the RAND-UCLA Delphi process. For the 16 conditions, 236 evidence-based care indicators were ratified. A multi-stage sampling of LTC facilities and residents was undertaken. Trained aged-care nurses then undertook manual structured record reviews of care delivered between 1 March and 31 May 2021 (our record review period) to assess adherence with the indicators.

RESULTS

Care received by 294 residents with 27,585 care encounters in 25 LTC facilities was evaluated. Residents received care for one to thirteen separate clinical conditions/processes of care (median = 10, mean = 9.7). Adherence to evidence-based care indicators was estimated at 53.2% (95% CI: 48.6, 57.7) ranging from a high of 81.3% (95% CI: 75.6, 86.3) for Bladder and Bowel to a low of 12.2% (95% CI: 1.6, 36.8) for Depression. Six conditions (skin integrity, end-of-life care, infection, sleep, medication, and depression) had less than 50% adherence with indicators.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study of adherence to evidence-based care for people in LTC using multiple conditions and a standardised method. Vulnerable older people are not receiving evidence-based care for many physical problems, nor care to support their mental health nor for end-of-life care. The six conditions in which adherence with indicators was less than 50% could be the focus of improvement efforts.

Disease burden attributable to respiratory syncytial virus outbreaks in long-term care

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease burden is significant among children; however, RSV can also cause excess morbidity and mortality among older adults. Populations in long-term care homes (LTCHs) may be at greater risk of exposure and increased infection severity. The objectives of this article are to identify evidence regarding disease burden and outcome severity attributable to RSV outbreaks among residents and staff in LTCHs; and to highlight reported population and outbreak characteristics.

Methods

All types of evidence were eligible for inclusion. Data utilized by included studies was between the end of the 2010 H1N1 influenza pandemic and the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Evidence from the following countries was considered: G7, the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. A total of 167 articles were identified; 58 full texts were analyzed and four sources of evidence were eligible for inclusion. Data related to population characteristics, outbreak type and resident and staff outcomes were manually charted.

Results

There is a paucity of evidence sources pertaining to RSV outbreak burden among residents and staff in LTCHs. Outbreak duration ranged from 13 to 21 days. For each outbreak, 4-7 residents had confirmed RSV infection. Attack rates ranged from 12% to 38%. A spectrum of disease attributable to RSV outbreaks in LTCHs was identified, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to death.

Conclusion

Integration of RSV into existing respiratory pathogen surveillance programs is important to characterize susceptibility, transmissibility and virulence of RSV in at-risk populations. There is a need for public health organizations to publish the findings from outbreak investigations to provide evidence to inform RSV outbreak prevention and response in LTCH settings.

Long-term course of neutralising antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in vaccinated and unvaccinated staff and residents in a Swiss nursing home: a cohort study 2021-2022

BACKGROUND

Given their high-risk resident population, nursing homes were critical institutions in the COVID-19 pandemic, calling for continued monitoring and vaccine administration to healthcare workers and residents. Here, we studied long-term severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) immunity in vaccinated and unvaccinated healthcare workers and residents of a nursing home in Switzerland between February 2021 and June 2022.

METHODS

Our study comprised 45 participants, of which 39 were healthcare workers and six were residents. All participants were offered a maximum of three mRNA vaccine doses (Pfizer/BioNTech, BNT162b2) in December 2020, January 2021, and November/December 2021. Thirty-five participants received three vaccinations, seven either one or two, and three remained unvaccinated. We collected four blood samples: one in March 2021 and three during follow-ups in November 2021, February 2022, and June 2022. We performed a multifactorial serological SARS-CoV-2 assay (ABCORA) for immunoglobulin G, A, and M responses to spike (receptor-binding domain, S1, and S2) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. Furthermore, we assessed predicted neutralisation activity based on signal over cutoff in ABCORA. We collected epidemiological data from participants via a standardised questionnaire.

RESULTS

Thirty-two (71%) of the 45 participants showed hybrid immunity from combined vaccination and previous infection; 10 (22%) had only vaccine-induced immunity; and three (7%) had only post-infection immunity. Participants with hybrid immunity showed the highest predicted neutralisation activity at the end of the study period (median Sum S1 = 273), and unvaccinated participants showed the lowest (median Sum S1 = 41). Amongst participants who reported a SARS-CoV-2 infection, median Sum S1 levels increased with the number of vaccinations (p = 0.077). The healthcare worker group showed a significant time-dependent decrease in median Sum S1 after base immunisation (93% decrease, p = 0.0005) and the booster dose (26% decrease, p = 0.010). Predicted neutralisation activity was lower amongst residents (adjusted ratio of means [AM] = 0.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.3-1.0) and amongst smokers (AM = 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-0.8). Activity increased with the number of vaccinations (booster: AM = 3.6, 95% CI 1.5-8.8; no booster: AM = 2.3, 95% CI 0.9-2.5). Positive SARS-CoV-2 infection status tended to confer higher predicted neutralisation levels (AM = 1.5, 95% CI 0.9-2.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study of the long-term serological course of SARS-CoV-2 in a nursing home showed that the first SARS-CoV-2 booster vaccine was essential for maintaining antiviral antibody levels. Hybrid immunity sustained SARS-CoV-2 immunity at the highest level. In critical settings such as nursing homes, monitoring the SARS-CoV-2 immune status may guide booster vaccinations.

Decolonization in Nursing Homes to Prevent Infection and Hospitalization

BACKGROUND

Nursing home residents are at high risk for infection, hospitalization, and colonization with multidrug-resistant organisms.

METHODS

We performed a cluster-randomized trial of universal decolonization as compared with routine-care bathing in nursing homes. The trial included an 18-month baseline period and an 18-month intervention period. Decolonization entailed the use of chlorhexidine for all routine bathing and showering and administration of nasal povidone-iodine twice daily for the first 5 days after admission and then twice daily for 5 days every other week. The primary outcome was transfer to a hospital due to infection. The secondary outcome was transfer to a hospital for any reason. An intention-to-treat (as-assigned) difference-in-differences analysis was performed for each outcome with the use of generalized linear mixed models to compare the intervention period with the baseline period across trial groups.

RESULTS

Data were obtained from 28 nursing homes with a total of 28,956 residents. Among the transfers to a hospital in the routine-care group, 62.2% (the mean across facilities) were due to infection during the baseline period and 62.6% were due to infection during the intervention period (risk ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96 to 1.04). The corresponding values in the decolonization group were 62.9% and 52.2% (risk ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.79 to 0.88), for a difference in risk ratio, as compared with routine care, of 16.6% (95% CI, 11.0 to 21.8; P<0.001). Among the discharges from the nursing home in the routine-care group, transfer to a hospital for any reason accounted for 36.6% during the baseline period and for 39.2% during the intervention period (risk ratio, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.12). The corresponding values in the decolonization group were 35.5% and 32.4% (risk ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.88 to 0.96), for a difference in risk ratio, as compared with routine care, of 14.6% (95% CI, 9.7 to 19.2). The number needed to treat was 9.7 to prevent one infection-related hospitalization and 8.9 to prevent one hospitalization for any reason.

CONCLUSIONS

In nursing homes, universal decolonization with chlorhexidine and nasal iodophor led to a significantly lower risk of transfer to a hospital due to infection than routine care. (Funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; Protect ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03118232.).

Traditional definition of healthcare-associated influenza underestimates cases associated with other healthcare exposures in a population-based surveillance system

OBJECTIVE

To provide comprehensive population-level estimates of the burden of healthcare-associated influenza.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

SETTING

US Influenza Hospitalization Surveillance Network (FluSurv-NET) during 2012-2013 through 2018-2019 influenza seasons.

PATIENTS

Laboratory-confirmed influenza-related hospitalizations in an 8-county catchment area in Tennessee.

METHODS

The incidence of healthcare-associated influenza was determined using the traditional definition (ie, positive influenza test after hospital day 3) in addition to often underrecognized cases associated with recent post-acute care facility admission or a recent acute care hospitalization for a noninfluenza illness in the preceding 7 days.

RESULTS

Among the 5,904 laboratory-confirmed influenza-related hospitalizations, 147 (2.5%) had traditionally defined healthcare-associated influenza. When we included patients with a positive influenza test obtained in the first 3 days of hospitalization and who were either transferred to the hospital directly from a post-acute care facility or who were recently discharged from an acute care facility for a noninfluenza illness in the preceding 7 days, we identified an additional 1,031 cases (17.5% of all influenza-related hospitalizations).

CONCLUSIONS

Including influenza cases associated with preadmission healthcare exposures with traditionally defined cases resulted in an 8-fold higher incidence of healthcare-associated influenza. These results emphasize the importance of capturing other healthcare exposures that may serve as the initial site of viral transmission to provide more comprehensive estimates of the burden of healthcare-associated influenza and to inform improved infection prevention strategies.

Not as simple as it seems: extensive facility and training gaps in nursing home bathing

Standardized observation of bed baths and showers for 100 residents in 8 nursing homes revealed inadequate cleansing of body sites (88%-100% failure) and >90% process failure involving lather, firm massage, changing dirty wipes or cloths, and following clean-to-dirty sequence. Insufficient water warmth affected 86% of bathing opportunities. Bathing training and adequate resources are needed.

Alpha Variant Coronavirus Outbreak in a Nursing Home Despite High Vaccination Coverage: Molecular, Epidemiological, and Immunological Studies

BACKGROUND

Vaccination may control the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, including in nursing homes where many high-risk people live. We conducted extensive outbreak investigations.

METHODS

We studied an outbreak at a nursing home in Switzerland, where the uptake of messenger RNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was 82% among residents as of 21 January 2021. After diagnosis of COVID-19 in a vaccinated symptomatic healthcare worker (HCW) on 22 February, we performed outbreak investigations in house A (47 residents; 37 HCWs), using SARS-CoV-2-specific polymerase chain reaction testing of nasopharyngeal swab samples. We performed whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 and serological analyses.

RESULTS

We identified 17 individuals with positive polymerase chain reaction results, 10 residents (5 vaccinated) and 7 HCWs (3 vaccinated). The median age (interquartile range) was 86 (70-90) years among residents and 49 (29-59) years among HCWs. Of the 5 vaccinated residents, 3 had mild disease and 2 had no symptoms, whereas all 5 unvaccinated residents had mild to severe disease, and 2 died. Vaccine effectiveness for the prevention of infection among residents was 73.0% (95% confidence interval, 24.7%-90.1%). The 12 available genomes were all alpha variants. Neutralizing titers were significantly higher in vaccinated individuals on reexposure (>1 week after diagnosis) than in vaccinated, unexposed HCWs (P = .01). Transmission networks indicated 4 likely or possible transmissions from vaccinated to other individuals and 12 transmission events from unvaccinated individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 outbreaks can occur in nursing homes, including transmission from vaccinated persons to others. Outbreaks might occur silently, underlining the need for continued testing and basic infection control measures in these high-risk settings.

Risk factors for colonization with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and Clostridioides difficile in Long Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) residents: the evidence from 27 facilities in a high endemic setting

Introduction

Residency in LTCFs increases the likelihood of colonization with multidrug resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB). We assessed the prevalence and risk factors for enteric colonization by III-generation cephalosporins-resistant and carbapenem-resistant (CR) GNB in a large group of LTCFs in a high endemic setting. We also assessed the prevalence and risk factors for C. difficile colonization.

Methods

A point prevalence survey with rectal screening (RS) was conducted in 27 LTCFs in north Italy. Epidemiological and clinical variables on the survey day, history of hospitalization and surgery within one year, and antibiotics within three months, were collected. The presence of III-generation cephalosporin resistant and CR GNB was assessed using a selective culture on chromogenic medium and PCR for carbapenemase detection. The presence of C. difficile was assessed using ELISA for GDH and RT-PCR to identify toxigenic strains. Multi-variable analyses were performed using two-level logistic regression models.

Results

In the study period 1947 RSs were performed. The prevalence of colonization by at least one GNB resistant to III-generation cephalosporin was 51% (E. coli 65%, K. pneumoniae 14% of isolates). The prevalence of colonization by CR GNB was 6%. 6% of all isolates (1150 strains) resulted in a carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae, and 3% in a carbapenem-resistant E. coli. KPC was the most frequent carbapenemase (73%) identified by PCR, followed by VIM (23%). The prevalence of colonization by C. difficile was 11.7%. The presence of a medical device (OR 2.67) and previous antibiotic use (OR 1.48) were significantly associated with III-generation cephalosporin resistant GNB colonization. The presence of a medical device (OR 2.67) and previous hospitalization (OR 1.80) were significantly associated with CR GNB. The presence of a medical device (OR 2.30) was significantly associated with C. difficile colonization. Main previously used antibiotic classes were fluoroquinolones (32% of previously treated subjects), III-generation cephalosporins (21%), and penicillins (19%).

Conclusion

Antimicrobial stewardship in LTCFs is a critical issue, being previous antibiotic treatment a risk factor for colonization by MDR-GNB. The prevalence of colonization by III-generation cephalosporin and CR GNB among LTCF residents also underlines the importance to adhere to hand hygiene indications, infection prevention and control measures, and environmental hygiene protocols, more achievable than rigorous contact precautions in this type of social setting.

Barriers and Facilitators to the Use of Personal Protective Equipment in Long-Term Care: A Scoping Review

OBJECTIVE

To review existing literature evaluating barriers and facilitators to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by health care workers in long-term care (LTC).

DESIGN

Scoping review.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Health care workers in LTC settings.

METHODS

Several online databases were searched and a gray literature search was conducted. Study inclusion criteria were (1) conducted in nursing homes or LTC settings, (2) focused on LTC health care workers as the study population, and (3) identified barriers and/or facilitators to PPE use. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), which assesses barriers to implementation across 14 behavioral change domains, was used to extract and organize data about barriers and facilitators to appropriate use of PPE from the included studies.

RESULTS

A total of 5216 references were screened for eligibility and 10 studies were included in this review. Eight of the 10 studies were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several barriers and facilitators to PPE use were identified. The most common TDF domain identified was environmental context and resources, which was observed in 9 of the 10 studies. Common barriers to PPE use included supply issues (n = 7 studies), the cost of acquisition (n = 3 studies), unclear guidelines on appropriate use of PPE (n = 2 studies), difficulty providing care (n = 2 studies), and anxiety about frightening patients (n = 2 studies). Having PPE readily available facilitated the use of PPE (n = 2 studies).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Further research is necessary to identify barriers and facilitators more extensively across behavior change domains to develop effective strategies to improve PPE use and prevent infection transmission within LTC.

Reimagining Infection Control in U.S. Nursing Homes in the Era of COVID-19

Residents of nursing homes (NHs) are susceptible to infection, and these facilities, particularly those that provide post-acute care services, are high-risk settings for the rapid spread of communicable respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses, as well as antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The complexity of medical care delivered in most NHs has increased dramatically over the past 2 decades; however, the structure and resources supporting the practice of infection prevention and control in these facilities has failed to keep pace. Rising numbers of infections caused by Clostridioides difficile and multidrug-resistant organisms, as well as the catastrophic effects of COVID-19 have pushed NH infection control resources to a breaking point. Recent changes to federal regulations require NHs to devote greater resources to the facility infection control program. However, additional changes are needed if sustained improvements in the prevention and control of infections and antibiotic resistance in NHs are to be achieved.

Enablement of nursing home residents in infection prevention during general practitioner visits: A qualitative study

Introduction

Hand hygiene measures are essential to protect nursing home residents against nosocomial infections. Evidence on the prevention of nosocomial infections for nursing home residents by general practitioners during their medical visits in nursing homes or how they enable nursing home residents to perform hand hygiene measures is lacking. This study aimed to explore hand hygiene behaviors of general practitioners in nursing homes, their attitudes toward infection prevention measures, and the enablement of nursing home residents in performing hand hygiene measures.

Materials and methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with general practitioners and nursing home residents in Germany. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Overall, 12 general practitioners and 12 nursing home residents participated in the study. The general practitioners expressed the fact that the possibilities for practicing hand hygiene differ in individual nursing homes. For nursing home residents, the availability of hand rub solutions was limited. Instructions for residents on hand disinfection from general practitioners was not described. Due to the lack of enablement, the residents’ knowledge on how to correctly perform hand hygiene was low, although some of the nursing home residents have experience with multidrug-resistant organisms. The nursing home residents varied in their needs for active participation and enablement during the general practitioners visit.

Conclusion

Nursing home residents require continuous enablement by their general practitioners to maintain adequate hand hygiene. Therefore, general practitioners should consider the different needs of nursing home residents to ensure adequate individual hand hygiene and safety for the residents. Existing guidelines for infection prevention and control do not adequately cover the nursing home care setting for the enablement of residents to enquire about hand hygiene.

Standards and quality of care for older persons in long term care facilities: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Caring for older persons has become a global necessity to ensure functional ability and healthy ageing. It is of paramount importance that standards of care are monitored, especially for older persons who live in long term care facilities (LTCF). We, therefore, scoped and summarised evidence relating to standards and the quality of care for older persons in LTCFs in gerontological literature globally.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review using Askey and O'Malley's framework, including Levac et al. recommendations. PubMed, CINAHL, Health Sources, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched with no date limitation up to May 2020 using keywords, Boolean terms, and medical subject headings. We also consulted the World Health Organization website and the reference list of included articles for evidence sources. This review also included peer-reviewed publications and grey literature in English that focused on standards and quality of care for older residents in LTCFs. Two reviewers independently screened the title, abstract, and full-text of evidence sources screening stages and performed the data extraction. Thematic content analysis was used, and a summary of the findings are reported narratively.

RESULTS

Sixteen evidence sources published from 1989 to 2017 met this study's eligibility criteria out of 73,845 citations obtained from the broader search. The majority of the studies were conducted in the USA 56% (9/16), and others were from Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, Norway, Israel, Japan, and France. The included studies presented evidence on the effectiveness of prompted voiding intervention for urinary incontinence in LTCFs (37.5%), the efficacy of professional support to LTCF staff (18.8%), and the prevention-effectiveness of a pressure ulcer programme in LTCFs (6.3%). Others presented evidence on regulation and quality of care (12.5%); nursing documentation and quality of care (6.3%); medical, nursing, and psychosocial standards on the quality of care (6.3%); medication safety using the Beer criteria (6.3%); and the quality of morning care provision (6.3%).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests most studies relating to standards and quality of care in LTCFs focus on effectiveness of interventions, few on people-centredness and safety, and are mainly conducted in European countries and the United States of America. Future studies on people-centerdness, safety, and geographical settings with limited or no evidence are recommended.

Social Distancing and Isolation Strategies to Prevent and Control the Transmission of COVID-19 and Other Infectious Diseases in Care Homes for Older People: An International Review

Older people living in care homes are at high risk of poor health outcomes and mortality if they contract COVID-19 or other infectious diseases. Measures used to protect residents include social distancing and isolation, although implementation is challenging. This review aimed to assess the social distancing and isolation strategies used by care homes to prevent and control the transmission of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Seven electronic databases were searched: Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, HMIC, Social Care Online, and Web of Science Core Collection. Grey literature was searched using MedRxiv, PDQ-Evidence, NICE Evidence Search, LTCCovid19.org and TRIP. Extracted data were synthesised using narrative synthesis and tabulation. 103 papers were included (10 empirical studies, seven literature reviews, and 86 policy documents). Strategies used to prevent and control the transmission of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases included social distancing and isolation of residents and staff, zoning and cohorting of residents, restriction of resident movement/activities, restriction of visitors and restriction of staff working patterns. This review demonstrates a lack of empirical evidence and the limited nature of policy documentation around social distancing and isolation measures in care homes. Evaluative research on these interventions is needed urgently, focusing on the well-being of all residents, particularly those with hearing, vision or cognitive impairments.

Adherence to PPE use in home-care service agencies during COVID-19 in Japan: A cross-sectional survey

Objectives

To assess adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) use among home care workers during usual care at the agency level during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan and determine whether agency-level action toward infection prevention and control (IPC) is associated with adherence to PPE use.

Design

A nationwide cross-sectional study.

Setting and Participants

Home care service agencies in Japan were randomly selected from all agencies nationwide.

Methods

An online survey was conducted between January and February 2021. The administrators at home care service agencies responded to the following items: adherence to PPE (disposable masks, gloves, and aprons) use during diaper change among their home care workers, agency-level actions toward IPC, including monitoring of infection outbreak among users, existing manual for IPC, training opportunities on IPC for care workers, and other agency and administrator characteristics.

Results

Of the 1942 agencies, 197 were included in the analysis (response rate: 10.1%). Although 145 (73.6%) of the agencies always used both masks and gloves during diaper change, 32 (16.2%) agencies fully adhered to wearing masks, gloves, and aprons. Agencies monitoring infectious disease outbreaks among service users were more likely to adhere to PPE use (adjusted odds ratio: 5.97, 95% confidence interval: 1.30–27.31).

Conclusions and Implications

Low adherence to PPE use, especially apron use, during diaper change among home care service agencies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan was revealed, despite the widespread availability of a manual for IPC and/or training opportunities. To ensure safety and quality home care services for both users and home care workers, agencies should not simply create manuals or training systems as a structure; instead, they should implement effective processes for appropriate PPE use.

Mortality, Length of Stay, and Healthcare Costs Associated With Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections Among Elderly Hospitalized Patients in the United States

BACKGROUND

This study reports estimates of the healthcare costs, length of stay, and mortality associated with infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria among elderly individuals in the United States.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of patients aged ≥65 admitted for inpatient stays in the Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare system between 1/2007-12/2018. We identified those with positive cultures for multidrug-resistant bacteria and matched each infected patient to ≤10 control patients. We then performed multivariable regression models to estimate the attributable cost and mortality due to the infection. We also constructed multistate models to estimate the attributable length of stay due to the infection. Finally, we multiplied these pathogen-specific attributable cost, length of stay, and mortality estimates by national case counts from hospitalized patients in 2017.

RESULTS

Our cohort consisted of 87 509 patients with infections and 835 048 matched controls. Costs were higher for hospital-onset invasive infections, with attributable costs ranging from $22 293 (95% confidence interval: $19 101-$24 485) for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to $57 390 ($34 070-$80 710) for carbapenem-resistant (CR) Acinetobacter. Similarly, for hospital-onset invasive infections, attributable mortality estimates ranged from 14.2% (12.2-16.2%) for MRSA to 24.1% (12.1-36.0%) for CR Acinetobacter. The aggregate cost of these infections was an estimated $1.9 billion ($1.3 billion-$2.5 billion) with 11 852 (8719-14 985) deaths and 448 224 (354 513-541 934) inpatient days in 2017.

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts to prevent these infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria could save a significant number of lives and healthcare resources.

Norovirus Epidemiology and Genetic Diversity in Leipzig, Germany during 2013-2017

Globally and in all age groups, noroviruses are a main cause of gastroenteritis. To assess their local epidemiology and genetic diversity, stool samples of 7509 inpatients with gastrointestinal complaints from all age groups were analyzed. After detection of norovirus genogroup I and II RNA by real-time RT-PCR, viral capsids were genotyped by partial nucleic acid sequencing. In the case of GII.2 strains, polymerase genotypes were also assessed. Between October 2013 and September 2017, presence of norovirus RNA was shown in 611 samples (8.1%), of which 610 (99.8%) were typed successfully. Norovirus positivity rate was higher in patients aged below five years (14.8%) than in older patients (5.7%). Among the 611 norovirus positive samples, GII.4 (56.6%) strains prevailed, followed by GII.6 (11.3%), GII.3 (11.0%) and GII.2 (9.5%). The most common genogroup I (GGI) genotype was GI.3 (3.6%). In addition, rare genotypes such as GII.13, GII.14 and GII.26 were detected. Interestingly, GII.3 infections were most common in children under the age of five years. Assessment of polymerase genotypes in GII.2 viruses showed a shift from P2 to P16, with higher diversity in P2 sequences. The varying distribution of norovirus genotypes depending on season, age and setting of infection highlights the importance of frequent genotyping as a basis for vaccine development and needful adjustments.

Infection prevention and control practice among home-care nursing agencies in Japan: Secondary analysis of a nationwide cross-sectional survey

Aim

We describe the nationwide situation of infection prevention and control (IPC) practices among home‐visit nursing agencies and compare them by agency size to explore whether these practices are associated with the occurrence of infection.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis using data from a cross‐sectional nationwide survey inspecting patient safety and IPC practices among nationwide home‐visit nursing agencies, from March to April 2020. Among 9978 agencies, 580 responded and 370 were incorporated in the analysis. The self‐administered questionnaire inquired about the IPC policy and administrative structure, education and training, adherence to standard precautions, and employee health programs. We described the adherence to IPC practice at the agency level and compared them by agency size using chi‐squared tests. Logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the associations between IPC practices and incidence of infection.

Results

Adherence to IPC practices ranged from 19.2% to 92.4% and varied according to agency size. Less than 20% of agencies had instituted a committee for IPC and strictly used disposable aprons when changing patients' diapers. Instituting a committee for IPC (odds ratio 2.19, 95% confidence interval 1.11–4.34, P < 0.05) and training staff for infection prevention (odds ratio 1.67, 95% confidence interval 1.02–2.72, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with the incidence of infection, after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions

There are challenges in establishing IPC policies and administrative structures and adhering to standard precautions. Well‐organized agencies were found to be more likely to detect infections occurring over the past 3 months. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 913–918.

Updates on Infection Control in Alternative Health Care Settings

Patients increasingly receive care from a large spectrum of different settings, placing them at risk for exposure to pathogens by many different sources. Each health care environment has its own specific challenges, and thus infection control programs must be tailored to each specific setting. High-turnover outpatient settings may require additional considerations, such as establishing patient triage and follow-up protocols, and broadened cleaning and disinfection procedures. In nursing homes, infection control programs should focus on surveillance for infections and antimicrobial resistance, outbreak investigation and control plan for epidemics, isolation precautions, hand hygiene, staff education, and employee and resident health programs.

Modeling Interventions to Reduce the Spread of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms Between Health Care Facilities in a Region

IMPORTANCE

Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) can spread across health care facilities in a region. Because of limited resources, certain interventions can be implemented in only some facilities; thus, decision-makers need to evaluate which interventions may be best to implement.

OBJECTIVE

To identify a group of target facilities and assess which MDRO intervention would be best to implement in the Shared Healthcare Intervention to Eliminate Life-threatening Dissemination of MDROs in Orange County, a large regional public health collaborative in Orange County, California.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

An agent-based model of health care facilities was developed in 2016 to simulate the spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) for 10 years starting in 2010 and to simulate the use of various MDRO interventions for 3 years starting in 2017. All health care facilities (23 hospitals, 5 long-term acute care hospitals, and 74 nursing homes) serving adult inpatients in Orange County, California, were included, and 42 target facilities were identified via network analyses.

EXPOSURES

Increasing contact precaution effectiveness, increasing interfacility communication about patients' MDRO status, and performing decolonization using antiseptic bathing soap and a nasal product in a specific group of target facilities.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

MRSA and CRE prevalence and number of new carriers (ie, transmission events).

RESULTS

Compared with continuing infection control measures used in Orange County as of 2017, increasing contact precaution effectiveness from 40% to 64% in 42 target facilities yielded relative reductions of 0.8% (range, 0.5%-1.1%) in MRSA prevalence and 2.4% (range, 0.8%-4.6%) in CRE prevalence in health care facilities countywide after 3 years, averting 761 new MRSA transmission events (95% CI, 756-765 events) and 166 new CRE transmission events (95% CI, 158-174 events). Increasing interfacility communication of patients' MDRO status to 80% in these target facilities produced no changes in the prevalence or transmission of MRDOs. Implementing decolonization procedures (clearance probability: 39% in hospitals, 27% in long-term acute care facilities, and 3% in nursing homes) yielded a relative reduction of 23.7% (range, 23.5%-23.9%) in MRSA prevalence, averting 3515 new transmission events (95% CI, 3509-3521 events). Increasing the effectiveness of antiseptic bathing soap to 48% yielded a relative reduction of 39.9% (range, 38.5%-41.5%) in CRE prevalence, averting 1435 new transmission events (95% CI, 1427-1442 events).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The findings of this study highlight the ways in which modeling can inform design of regional interventions and suggested that decolonization would be the best strategy for the Shared Healthcare Intervention to Eliminate Life-threatening Dissemination of MDROs in Orange County.

Molecular Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacterales in Long-Term Care Residents

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to assess the burden of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales in Swiss long-term care facilities (LTCFs) to describe the molecular epidemiology, describe the intrainstitutional and regional clusters of resistant pathogens, and identify independent institution- and resident-level factors associated with colonization.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

From August to October 2019, we performed a point prevalence study among residents from 16 LTCFs in Western and Eastern Switzerland (8 per region).

METHODS

Residents underwent screening for ESBL-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E); whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed. We gathered institution-level (eg, number of beds, staff-resident ratio, alcoholic hand rub consumption) and resident-level [eg, anthropometric data, time in facility, dependency, health care exposure, antibiotic treatment, proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use] characteristics. Factors associated with colonization were identified using a generalized linear model.

RESULTS

Among 1185 eligible residents, 606 (51%) consented to the study. ESBL-E prevalence was 11.6% (70/606), ranging from 1.9% to 33.3% between institutions, with a median of 12.5% in the West and 6.9% in the East (P = .03). Among 59 Escherichia coli (from 58 residents), multilocus sequence type (ST) 131 was most common (n = 43/59, 73%), predominantly its subclone H30R1 (n = 37/43, 86%). WGS data identified multiple intrainstitutional and regional clusters. Independent risk factors for ESBL carriage were previous ESBL colonization [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 23.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 6.6-83.8, P < .001), male gender (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.5-4.6, P = .002), and use of PPIs (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-3.8, P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Overall ESBL-E prevalence in Swiss LTCF residents is low. Yet, we identified several clusters of residents with identical pathogens within the same institution. This implies that particularly affected institutions might benefit from targeted infection control interventions. PPI use was the only modifiable factor associated with carriage of ESBL producers. This study adds to the growing list of adverse outcomes associated with PPIs, calling for action to restrict their use in the long-term care setting.

Epidemiology and Prevention of Healthcare-Associated Infections in Geriatric Patients: A Narrative Review

Demographic studies show that life expectancy is increasing in developed countries; increased longevity has also increased the share of the older population with often concomitant chronic conditions. An ageing population and increased comorbidities lead to more complex pharmacological therapies (polypharmacy). The particular picture provided by chronic conditions and polypharmacy can lead to longer hospital stays and a greater need for healthcare. Elderly patients are identified as being in the high-risk group for the development of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) due to the age-related decline of the immune system, known as immunosenescence. Comorbid conditions can often complicate infections, diminishing our ability to treat them effectively. Respiratory tract infections are the most common healthcare-associated infections, followed by urinary tract infections. HAIs in geriatric patients are responsible for longer hospital stays, extended antibiotic therapy, significant mortality, and higher healthcare costs. This is because the microorganisms involved are multidrug-resistant and, therefore, more difficult to eliminate. Moreover, geriatric patients are frequently transferred from one facility (nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, home care, and other specialty clinics) to another or from one hospital ward to another; these transitions cause care fragmentation, which can undermine the effectiveness of treatment and allow pathogens to be transferred from one setting to another and from one person to another. Multifactorial efforts such as early recognition of infections, restricted use of invasive devices, and effective infection control measures (surveillance, isolation practices, hand hygiene, etc.) can contribute to significant reduction of HAIs in geriatric patients.

Presence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on Healthcare Workers' Attire: A Systematic Review

Contaminated healthcare workers' (HCW) clothing risk transferring methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in healthcare facilities. We performed a systematic review in Pubmed and Scopus for 2000-2020 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to analyze evidence of MRSA on HCW attire. The primary study outcome was MRSA isolation rates on HCW clothing in healthcare settings. Out of 4425 articles, 23 studies were included: 18 with 1760 HCWs, four with 9755 HCW-patient interactions and one with 512 samples. There was a notable variation in HCWs surveyed, HCW attires, sampling techniques, culture methods and laundering practices. HCW attire was frequently colonized with MRSA with the highest rates in long-sleeved white coats (up to 79%) and ties (up to 32%). Eight studies reported additional multidrug-resistant bacteria on the sampled attire. HCW attire, particularly long-sleeved white coats and ties, is frequently contaminated with MRSA. Banning certain types and giving preference to in-house laundering in combination with contact precautions can effectively decrease MRSA contamination and spread.

Risk adjustment for benchmarking nursing home infection surveillance data: A narrative review

Until recently, there was no national surveillance system for monitoring infection occurrence in long-term care facilities (LTCF) in the United States. As a result, there are no national benchmarks for LTCF infection rates that can be utilized for quality improvement at the facility level. One of the major challenges in the reporting of health care-related infection data is accounting for nonmodifiable facility and patient characteristics that influence benchmarks for infection. The objectives of this paper are to review: (a) published infection rates in LTCF in the United States to assess the level of variability; (b) studies describing facility- and resident-level risk factors for infection that can be used in risk adjustment models; (c) published attempts to risk-adjust LTCF infection rates; and (d) efforts to develop models specifically for risk adjustment of infection rates in LTCF for benchmarking. It is anticipated that this review will stimulate further study of methods to risk-adjust LTCF infection rates for benchmarking that will facilitate research and public reporting.

Does Integration of Palliative Care and Infection Management Reduce Hospital Transfers among Nursing Home Residents?

Background: An estimated 50% of nursing home (NH) residents experience hospital transfers in their last year of life, often due to infections. Hospital transfers due to infection are often of little clinical benefit to residents with advanced illness, for whom aggressive treatments are often ineffective and inconsistent with goals of care. Integration of palliative care and infection management (i.e., merging the goals of palliative care and infection management at end of life) may reduce hospital transfers for residents with advanced illness. Objectives: Evaluate the association between integration and (1) all-cause hospital transfers and (2) hospital transfers due to infection. Design: Cross-sectional observational study. Setting/Subjects: 143,223 U.S. NH residents, including 42,761 residents in the advanced stages of dementia, congestive heart failure (CHF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Measurement: Cross-sectional, nationally representative NH survey data (2017-2018) were combined with resident data from the Minimum Data Set 3.0 and Medicare inpatient data (2016-2017). NH surveys measured integration of palliative care and infection management using an index of 0-100. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the relationships between integration intensity (i.e., the degree to which NHs follow best practices for integration) and all-cause hospital transfer and transfer due to infection. Results: Among residents with advanced dementia, integration intensity was inversely associated with all-cause hospital transfer and transfer due to infection (p < 0.001). Among residents with advanced COPD, integration intensity was inversely associated with all-cause hospital transfer (p < 0.05) but not transfers due to infection. Among residents with advanced CHF, integration intensity was not associated with either outcome. Conclusions: NH policies aimed to promote integration of palliative care and infection management may reduce burdensome hospital transfers for residents with advanced dementia. For residents with advanced CHF and COPD, alternative strategies may be needed to promote best practices for infection management at end of life.

Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort: How Can We Manage It?

The urethral catheter is used in various clinical situations such as diagnosing urologic disease, urine drainage in patients after surgery, and for patients who cannot urinate voluntarily. However, catheters can cause numerous adverse effects, such as catheter-associated infection, obstruction, bladder stones, urethral injury, and catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD). CRBD symptoms vary among patients from burning sensation and pain in the suprapubic and penile areas to urinary urgency. CRBD significantly reduces patient quality of life and can lead to several complications. CRBD is caused by catheter-induced bladder irritation due to muscarinic receptor-mediated involuntary contractions of bladder smooth muscle and also can be caused by mechanical stimulus of the urethral catheter. Various pharmacologic studies for managing CRBD, including antimuscarinic and antiepileptic agents and botulinum toxin injections have been reported. If urologists can reduce patients’ CRBD, their quality of life and recovery can improve.

The use of laboratory-identified event surveillance to classify adverse outcomes due to Clostridioides difficile infection in Canadian long-term care facilities

OBJECTIVE

Adverse outcomes following Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) are not often reported for long-term care facility (LTCF) residents. We focused on the adverse outcomes due to CDI identified in Alberta LTCFs.

METHODS

All positive Clostridioides difficile stool specimens identified by laboratory-identified (LabID) event surveillance in Alberta from 2011 to 2018, along with Alberta Continuing Care Information System, were used to define CDI in Alberta LTCFs. CDI cases were classified as long-term care onset, hospital onset, and community onset. Laboratory records were linked to provincial databases to analyze acute-care admissions and mortality within 30-day post CDI. Age, sex, case classification, episode, and operator type, were investigated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 902 CDI cases were identified in 762 LTCF residents. Of all CDI events, 860 (95.3%) were long-term care onset, 38 (4.2%) were hospital onset, and 4 (0.4%) were community onset. The CDI rate was 2.0 of 100,000 resident days. In total, 157 residents (20.6%) had 30-day all-cause mortality, 126 CDI cases (14.0%) had 30-day all-cause acute-care admissions. The 30-day all-cause mortality rate was significantly higher in residents aged >80 versus ≤80 years (24.9 vs 12.3 per 100 residents; P < .05). Residents aged >80 years, with hospital-onset CDI, and those staying in private or voluntary LTCFs were more likely to have 30-day all-cause acute-care admissions.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of CDI adverse outcomes is in LTCFs was found to be high using LabID event surveillance. Annual review of CDI adverse outcomes using LabID event can minimize the burden of surveillance and standardize the process across all Alberta LTCFs.

Length of Stay in Patients With Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection at a Tertiary Hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Objective

To examine the impact of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) on hospital length of stay (LOS) and to identify the factors associated with prolonged LOS.

Methods

The research setting was King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC) in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A retrospective cohort design was applied with a sample of adult CLABSI patients. Patients developed CLABSI following central line insertion at KSUMC between March 2016 and February 2018.

Results

The CLABSI-related prolongation of LOS was 13.13 ± 9.53 days for a total of 283 patients. This figure rose for patients with any CLABSI-related sequela, and the result was statistically significant (p<0.033). It was also significantly higher in patients with delayed central line removal (p<0.001). A patient’s setting (i.e., in the intensive care unit prior to or following infection) was not a factor associated with prolonged LOS. Nevertheless, the requirement for inotropes after the infection was linked to prolonged LOS in a statistically significant way (p<0.048).

Conclusions

For ill patients who need hemodynamic support following infection, CLABSI can significantly increase hospital LOS. Delayed decisions or slow central line removal are associated with significant increases in LOS.

Scabies and Pediculosis in Penitentiary Institutions in Poland-A Study of Ectoparasitoses in Confinement Conditions

BACKGROUND

Scabies (caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis) and pediculosis (caused by Pediculus humanus) are infectious diseases common in educational institutions and long-term care centres. The aim of the study was to assess the scale of the phenomenon in confinement conditions favouring the spread of these parasitoses.

METHODS

Data on the prevalence of scabies (2001-2015) and pediculosis (2008-2015) in Polish prisoners were provided by the Central Board of Prison Service. The information for the period between 2010 and 2015 in the Lublin Province was obtained from the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Lublin. Correlations between the prevalence of scabies and pediculosis and the number of prisoners were analysed, as well as correlations between the number of passes granted to prisoners and the prevalence of scabies and pediculosis in incarcerated individuals.

RESULTS

The prevalence of scabies and pediculosis in Polish prisoners has been estimated at 2.3% and 1.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediculosis and scabies are still current issues in Polish prisons. Convicts returning from passes and new prisoners should be carefully examined and monitored for the presence of S. scabiei var. hominis and P. humanus invasion. Education of prisoners could be a promising tool in prevention of scabies and pediculosis in correctional settings.

Recommendations for the surveillance of multidrug-resistant bacteria in Italian long-term care facilities by the GLISTer working group of the Italian Association of Clinical Microbiologists (AMCLI)

Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are an important reservoir of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). Colonization of LTCF residents by MDROs is generally higher in Italy compared to other European countries. The present review by the working group for the study of infections in LTCFs (GLISTer) of the Italian Association of Clinical Microbiologists (AMCLI) aims to propose criteria for a laboratory-based surveillance of MDROs in Italian LTCFs.

We recommend the adhesion to three levels of laboratory-based MDROs surveillance in LTCFs: i) mandatory MDRO surveillance by cumulative retrospective analysis of antimicrobial susceptibility data, obtained as part of routine care of clinical specimens. ii) strongly recommended surveillance by active rectal swab cultures or molecular screening to determine colonization with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales, should a resident be proven infected. iii) voluntary surveillance by prospective MDRO surveys, mainly based on point prevalence colonization studies, allowing to determine the MDROs baseline prevalence in the facility.

Laboratory-based surveillance of MDROs in LTCFs is aimed at providing useful epidemiological information to healthcare providers operating in the facility, but it is only effective if the collected data are used for infection prevention and control purposes, targeting the peculiar aspects of LTCFs.

Home care nurses' identification of patients at risk of infection and their risk mitigation strategies: A qualitative interview study

BACKGROUND

There is an increase in the number of individuals who receive care at home. A significant proportion of these patients acquire infections during their care episode. Whilst there has been significant focus on strategies for infection prevention and control in acute care environments, there is a lack of research into infection prevention in a home care setting.

OBJECTIVES

To understand (1) if and how home care nurses identify patients at high risk of infection and (2) the strategies they use to mitigate that risk.

DESIGN

A qualitative descriptive study, using semi-structured interviews.

SETTING

A large not for profit home care agency located in the New York region of the United States.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty nurses with a range of experience in home care nursing.

METHODS

Purposive and snowball sampling was used to recruit nurses from across the home care agency with varied years of work experience. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. The interviews explored how home care nurses evaluate their patients' risk of developing an infection and if/how they modify the plan of care based on that risk. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Three themes were derived from the data; assessing a patient's risk of infection, the risk assessment process, and strategies for mitigating infection risk. Factors identified by nurses as putting a patient at higher risk of infection included being older, having diabetes, inadequate nutrition; along with inadequate clinical information available at start of care. The patient's knowledge and understanding of infection prevention, and the availability and knowledge of caregivers were also important, as was the cleanliness of the home environment. Given the context of home care, where nurses have little control over the environment and care processes in-between visits, the main strategy for infection prevention was patient and caregiver education. Nurses also discussed the importance of their own infection prevention behaviours, and the ability to adjust a patient's plan of care according to their infection risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the complexity of the risk assessment process in relation to infection. Existing guidelines for infection prevention and control do not adequately cover the home care environment and more research needs to determine which interventions (such as patient/caregiver education) would be most effective to prevent infections in the home care setting.

Risk factors for hospital-acquired non-catheter-associated urinary tract infection

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Nosocomial urinary tract infection in patients with no Foley catheter [non-catheter-associated urinary tract infection (non-CAUTI)] has been a serious health issue that is associated with an increase in the cost of care, morbidity, and mortality. Identifying the risk factors of non-CAUTI would help determine patients at high risk and prevent complications. This study aims to identify the risk factors of non-CAUTI.

METHOD

This study was conducted in four hospitals in three Middle Eastern countries: Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. A convenience sample of 189 participants was recruited, of which 83 had non-CAUTI. Case-control design was used. Patients who had non-CAUTI while hospitalized were compared with others who did not. A questionnaire was developed based on the non-CAUTI diagnostic criteria from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The questionnaire contained two parts: part one included participants' characteristics and part two assessed the symptoms of non-CAUTI.

CONCLUSION

Comorbidity is associated with a higher risk of having nosocomial non-CAUTI among hospitalized patients. This study showed that the diagnosis and management of comorbidity is important in lowering the risk of non-CAUTI in hospitalized patients. Age and antibiotic administration were statistically significant; however, their effects were small and were unlikely to have any clinical significance.

IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE

Identifying patients at high risk is imperative to prevent the development of non-CAUTI. Nurse practitioners may implement an early intervention for patients with comorbidity to counteract its effect on patients' health.

Recommendations for protecting against and mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care facilities

The COVID-19 outbreak has drawn heightened attention from public health scholars researching ways to limit its spread. Much of the research has been focused on minimizing transmission in hospitals and in the general community. However, a particularly vulnerable community that has received relatively little attention is elders residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). In this article we address this relative lack of attention, arguing that enhanced traffic control bundling (eTCB) can and should be adopted and implemented as a means of protecting LTCF residents and staff. Enhanced TCB has been widely applied in hospital settings and has proven effective at limiting droplet and fomite transmissions both within hospitals and between hospitals and the general community. By effectively adapting eTCB to LTCF conditions, particularly by incorporating compartmentalization within zones plus active surveillance, COVID-19 transmission into and throughout LTCFs can be minimized, thereby saving numerous lives among an especially vulnerable population.

A systematic review on the causes of the transmission and control measures of outbreaks in long-term care facilities: Back to basics of infection control

BACKGROUND

The unique characteristics of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) including host factors and living conditions contribute to the spread of contagious pathogens. Control measures are essential to interrupt the transmission and to manage outbreaks effectively.

AIM

The aim of this systematic review was to verify the causes and problems contributing to transmission and to identify control measures during outbreaks in LTCFs.

METHODS

Four electronic databases were searched for articles published from 2007 to 2018. Articles written in English reporting outbreaks in LTCFs were included. The quality of the studies was assessed using the risk-of-bias assessment tool for nonrandomized studies.

FINDINGS

A total of 37 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. The most commonly reported single pathogen was influenza virus, followed by group A streptococcus (GAS). Of the studies that identified the cause, about half of them noted outbreaks transmitted via person-to-person. Suboptimal infection control practice including inadequate decontamination and poor hand hygiene was the most frequently raised issue propagating transmission. Especially, lapses in specific care procedures were linked with outbreaks of GAS and hepatitis B and C viruses. About 60% of the included studies reported affected cases among staff, but only a few studies implemented work restriction during outbreaks.

CONCLUSIONS

This review indicates that the violation of basic infection control practice could be a major role in introducing and facilitating the spread of contagious diseases in LTCFs. It shows the need to promote compliance with basic practices of infection control to prevent outbreaks in LTCFs.

Antimicrobial stewardship in care homes: outcomes of importance to stakeholders

BACKGROUND

Heterogeneity of outcomes measured in trials to improve antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in care homes has compromised quality of evidence. A core outcome set (COS) is needed to facilitate interpretation and synthesis of evidence in this area.

AIM

To determine outcomes deemed important by relevant stakeholders for interventions aimed at improving AMS in care homes, and to produce a refined list of outcomes that could be considered for use in future research.

METHODS

Semi-structured face-to-face or telephone interviews were conducted with key stakeholders. Outcomes reported in previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of AMS in care homes were included in a topic guide for interviews. Content analysis was undertaken to identify potential outcomes suggested by participants, followed by further review.

FINDINGS

Twenty-seven outcomes reported in RCTs were refined into a list of 12 overarching outcomes. Interviews with participants (six researchers, 31 healthcare professionals, and four family members of care home residents) identified 40 additional outcomes that were important to them. From these 52 outcomes, the total number of antimicrobials, the appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing and adherence to guidelines were highlighted by most participants. After reviewing all 52 outcomes, a refined list of 14 outcomes potentially feasible for use in AMS trials in care homes was generated.

CONCLUSION

s: A number of potential outcomes for AMS in care homes, some of which had not been reported in previous studies, were identified. The refined list of 14 outcomes will be used in a future study to agree a COS for care home AMS trials.

Changes in US Nursing Home Infection Prevention and Control Programs From 2014 to 2018

OBJECTIVE

Burgeoning rates of antibiotic resistance have resulted in a shift in national focus to improve infection prevention and control programs in US nursing homes (NHs). We sought to evaluate the changes in nursing home infection prevention and control programs over time.

DESIGN

Retrospective comparative analysis of national nursing home survey data from 2014 and 2018.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We used survey data from 2 nationally representative samples of US nursing homes (945 NHs in 2014 and 888 in 2018).

METHODS

Three indices measuring antibiotic stewardship, outbreak control, and urinary tract infection prevention (ranging from 0 to 100) were developed to measure the change in infection prevention and control programs. Multivariable linear regression models were used to identify facility and infection preventionist characteristics associated with each index. Decomposition models were used to identify contributions of factors on the differences in each index over time.

RESULTS

From 2014 to 2018, we saw strengthening of antibiotic stewardship practices by 33 percentage points, outbreak control practices by 13 percentage points, and urinary tract infection prevention practices by 6 percentage points. Although we found several predictors of these improvements, much of the improvement was due to the difference in time.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Policy mandates and greater national attention are likely important factors in improving nursing home infection prevention and control practices. Further work is needed to evaluate the effect of these programs on resident outcomes.

Trends and impact of antimicrobial resistance on older inpatients with urinary tract infections (UTIs): A national retrospective observational study

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections in older people and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. UTIs are also associated with increased risk of antimicrobial resistance (AR). This study examined changes in AR among older inpatients with a primary diagnosis of UTIs in the United States over an 8-year period and the impact of AR on clinical outcomes and hospital costs. Data were obtained from the longitudinal hospital HCUP-NIS database from 2009 to 2016 for inpatient episodes that involved those aged 65+ years. The ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes were used to identify episodes with a primary diagnosis of UTIs, comorbidities, AR status and age-adjusted Deyo-Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) for the patient concerned. Weighted multivariable regression was used to examine the impact of AR on all-cause inpatient mortality, discharge destination, length of stay and hospital expenditures, adjusted for socio-demographic and clinical covariates. The proportion of admissions with AR increased, from 3.64% in 2009 to 6.88% in 2016 (p<0.001), with distinct patterns for different types of resistance. The likelihood of AR was higher in admissions with high ACCI scores and admissions to hospitals in urban areas. Admissions with AR were more likely to be discharged to healthcare facilities (e.g. care homes) compared to routine discharge (OR 1.81; 95%CI, 1.75–1.86), had increased length of stay (1.12 days; 95%CI, 1.06–1.18) and hospital costs (1259 USD; 95%CI, 1178–1340). Resistance due to MRSA was specifically associated with increased hospital mortality (OR 1.33; 95%CI, 1.15–1.53). Our findings suggest that the prevalence of AR has increased among older inpatients with UTIs in the USA. The study highlights the impact of AR among older inpatients with a primary diagnosis of UTIs on clinical outcomes and hospital costs. These relationships and their implications for the care homes to which patients are frequently discharged warrant further research.

Risk factors of community-onset extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteraemia in South Korea using national health insurance claims data

BACKGROUND

Although it is essential to know the particular causes of antibiotic-resistant infections in the community, there is lack of evidence regarding risk factors for community-onset extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) bacteraemia in South Korea. As such, this study aimed to identify risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP bacteraemia.

METHODS

From May 2016 to April 2017, patients with community-onset KP bloodstream infection (BSI) (n = 408) from six sentinel hospitals participating in the Global Antimicrobial Surveillance System in South Korea were included in this study. Risk factors of ESBL-KP BSI were assessed. Polymerase chain reaction and sequencing to identify genes encoding ESBLs and multi-locus sequence typing were performed.

RESULTS

Of the 408 patients with community-onset KP BSI, 70 (17%) had ESBL-KP BSI. Admission to a long-term-care hospital within the previous 3 months [odds ratio (OR) 5.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.1-15.6; P = 0.001], previous use of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMT; OR 11.5, 95% CI 2.7-48.6; P = 0.001) or extended-spectrum cephalosporin (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-3.9; P = 0.01), and previous use of a urinary catheter (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.5; P = 0.02) were independent risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. ESBL-KP isolates most frequently carried the CTX-M-1 group ESBL (74%, n = 52). The most prevalent sequence type (ST) among the ESBL-KP isolates was ST48 (14%, n = 10). Among non-ESBL-KP isolates, ST23 was most prevalent (21%, n = 70).

CONCLUSION

Previous admission to a long-term-care hospital, use of a urinary catheter and use of TMP/SMT or extended-spectrum cephalosporin within the previous 3 months were identified as risk factors for community-onset ESBL-KP BSI. Strict antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures are needed for long-term-care hospitals.

National trends in the treatment of urinary tract infections among Veterans' Affairs Community Living Center residents

OBJECTIVE

To describe urinary tract infection (UTI) treatment among Veterans' Affairs (VA) Community Living Centers (CLCs) nationally and to assess related trends in antibiotic use.

DESIGN

Descriptive study.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

All UTI episodes treated from 2013 through 2017 among residents in 110 VA CLCs. UTI episodes required collection of a urine culture, antibiotic treatment, and a UTI diagnosis code. UTI episodes were stratified into culture-positive and culture-negative episodes.

METHODS

Frequency and rate of antibiotic use were assessed for all UTI episodes overall and were stratified by culture-positive and culture-negative episodes. Joinpoint software was used for regression analyses of trends over time.

RESULTS

We identified 28,247 UTI episodes in 14,983 Veterans. The average age of Veterans was 75.7 years, and 95.9% were male. Approximately half of UTI episodes (45.7%) were culture positive and 25.7% were culture negative. Escherichia coli was recovered in 34.1% of culture-positive UTI episodes, followed by Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella spp, which were recovered in 24.5% and 17.4% of culture-positive UTI episodes, respectively. The rate of total antibiotic use in days of therapy (DOT) per 1,000 bed days decreased by 10.1% per year (95% CI, -13.6% to -6.5%) and fluoroquinolone use (ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin) decreased by 14.5% per year (95% CI, -20.6% to -7.8%) among UTI episodes overall. Similar reductions in rates of total antibiotic use and fluoroquinolone use were observed among culture-positive UTI episodes and among culture-negative UTI episodes.

CONCLUSION

Over a 5-year period, antibiotic use for UTIs significantly decreased among VA CLCs, as did use of fluoroquinolones. Antibiotic stewardship efforts across VA CLCs should be applauded, and these efforts should continue.

Interventions to Improve Antimicrobial Stewardship for Older People in Care Homes: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing has been reported in care homes. This may result in serious drug-related adverse events, Clostridium difficile colonization, and the development of antimicrobial resistance among care home residents. Interventions to improve antibiotic prescribing in nursing homes have been reported through clinical trials, but whether antifungal and antiviral prescribing and residential homes have been considered, or how outcomes were measured and reported in such interventions, remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

Our aims were to evaluate the effect of interventions to improve antimicrobial stewardship in care homes and to report the outcomes used in these trials.

METHODS

We searched 11 electronic databases and five trial registries for studies published until 30 November 2018. Inclusion criteria for the review were randomized controlled trials, targeting care home residents and healthcare professionals, providing interventions to improve antimicrobial prescribing compared with usual care or other interventions. The Cochrane tools for assessing risk of bias were used for quality assessment. A narrative approach was taken because of heterogeneity across the studies.

RESULTS

Five studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies varied in terms of types of infection, key targets, delivery of interventions, and reported outcomes. In total, 27 outcomes were reported across the studies, with seven not prespecified in the methods. The interventions had little impact on adherence to guidelines and prevalence of antimicrobial prescribing; they appeared to decrease total antimicrobial consumption but were unlikely to have affected overall hospital admissions and mortality. The overall quality of evidence was low because the risk of bias was high across the studies.

CONCLUSION

The interventions had limited effect on improving antimicrobial prescribing but did not appear to cause harm to care home residents. The low quality of evidence and heterogeneity in outcome measurement suggest the need for future well-designed studies and the development of a core outcome set to best evaluate the effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship in care homes.

Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Long-Term Care Settings: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial stewardship programs have been established in hospitals, but less studied in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs), a setting with unique challenges related to patient populations and available resources. This systematic review sought to provide a comprehensive assessment of antimicrobial stewardship interventions implemented in LTCFs, using meta‐analysis to examine their impact on overall antimicrobial use.

METHODS

Electronic searches of MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL (1990 to July 2018) identified any antimicrobial stewardship interventions in LTCFs, with no restriction on patient population, study design, or outcomes. Intervention components were categorized using the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care taxonomy on implementation strategies. Random‐effects meta‐analysis used ratio of means to facilitate pooling of different metrics of antimicrobial use.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies (one randomized controlled trial [RCT], four cluster RCTs, four controlled pre/post studies, and nine uncontrolled pre/post studies) met inclusion, using 13 different antimicrobial stewardship intervention strategies; 15 studies used multifaceted (maximum, seven; median, four) interventions. The three most commonly implemented strategies were educational materials, educational meetings, and guideline implementation. Intervention labor intensity and resource requirements varied considerably among interventions. Meta‐analysis of 11 studies demonstrated that antimicrobial stewardship strategies were associated with a 14% reduction in overall antimicrobial use (95% confidence interval = −8% to −20%; P < .0001), with similar results by study design but high heterogeneity (I² = 86%) for the uncontrolled pre/post study subgroup and no heterogeneity (I² = 0%) for the cluster RCT and controlled pre/post study subgroups. Funnel plot analysis suggested publication bias, with a lack of publication of smaller studies showing increased antibiotic use.

CONCLUSION

Antimicrobial stewardship strategies implemented in long‐term care vary considerably in design and resource intensity, but collectively suggest potential to reduce antimicrobial use in this challenging setting. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:392–399, 2019.

Transmission of resistant Gram-negative bacteria to healthcare personnel gowns and gloves during care of residents in community-based nursing facilities

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the risk of transmission of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (RGNB) to gowns and gloves worn by healthcare personnel (HCP) when providing care to residents of community-based nursing facilities to identify the types of care and resident characteristics associated with transmission.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.Settings and participantsResidents and HCP from 13 community-based nursing facilities in Maryland and Michigan.

METHODS

Perianal swabs were collected from residents and cultured to detect RGNB. HCP wore gowns and gloves during usual care activities, and at the end of each interaction, these were swabbed in a standardized manner. Transmission of RGNB from a colonized resident to gowns and gloves was estimated. Odds ratios (ORs) of transmission associated with type of care or resident characteristic were calculated.

RESULTS

We enrolled 403 residents and their HCP in this study. Overall, 19% of enrolled residents with a perianal swab (n=399) were colonized with at least 1 RGNB. RGNB transmission to either gloves or gowns occurred during 11% of the 584 interactions. Showering the resident, hygiene or toilet assistance, and wound dressing changes were associated with a high risk of transmission. Glucose monitoring and assistance with feeding or medication were associated with a low risk of transmission. Residents with a pressure ulcer were 3 times more likely to transmit RGNB than residents without one (OR, 3.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-11.1).

CONCLUSIONS

Gown and glove use in community nursing facilities should be prioritized for certain residents and care interactions that are deemed a high risk for transmission.

Prevalence of infections and antimicrobial prescribing in Australian aged care facilities: Evaluation of modifiable and nonmodifiable determinants

BACKGROUND

Infections in aged care residents are associated with poor outcomes, and inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing contributes to adverse events, such as the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The objective of this study was to identify resident- and facility-level factors associated with infection and antimicrobial prescribing in Australian aged care residents.

METHODS

Using data captured by a national point-prevalence survey (the Aged Care National Antimicrobial Prescribing Survey), risk and protective factors were determined by multivariate Poisson regression.

RESULTS

In 2017, 292 facilities were surveyed. Infection prevalence was 2.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.6%-3.2%), and antimicrobial use prevalence was 8.9% (95% CI, 8.4%-9.4%). Resident-level factors associated with infection prevalence included urinary catheterization and hospital admission within the last 30 days; facility-level factors included state and multipurpose service provision. Resident-level factors associated with antimicrobial prescribing included infection signs and symptoms; facility-level factors included state, nonmetropolitan locality, and not-for-profit status. Availability of guidelines for urinary tract infection (UTI) management was associated with reduced antimicrobial prescribing.

CONCLUSIONS

Looking ahead, reports should be peer grouped by significant facility-level factors. Priority should be given to implementing UTI management guidelines and prevention of infection in residents with indwelling urinary catheters. Enhanced monitoring and prevention strategies are required for residents recently admitted to hospital.

[Antimicrobial stewardship programme implementation in a medical ward]

OBJECTIVE

Antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASP) have proven to be effective tools for reducing the use of antimicrobials. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of an ASP implantation in a medical Ward.

METHODS

Prospective intervention study in a medical ward with a heterogeneous composition. In September 2014, an ASP based on prospective audits was implemented. Antimicrobial consumption and the length of stay and mortality in all patients admitted, as well as in the main infections present in the unit, were compared before and after two years of the ASP implementation.

RESULTS

A total of 378 infectious episodes of 335 pa-tients were evaluated in 168 meetings. The prescriber ac-cepted 92.3% of the suggestions. The consumption of an-timicrobials reviewed was reduced from 31.3 to 17.6 DDD / 100-stays (β =-0.40, P = 0.015). The average cost per income was reduced from € 161.4 to € 123.3 (-23.6%). No differences were found in total length of stay or mortality. There were no changes in the incidence of Clostridium difficile infection or candidemia between the two periods. There were no significant differences in length of stay or mortality in total bacteremia, candidemia, and urinary tract infections caused by multiresistant bacteria.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of an ASP in a heterogeneous medical ward significantly reduces the use of antimicrobials in a short time horizon without adversely affecting the evolution of the patients..

Bacteriuria and asymptomatic infection in chronic patients with indwelling urinary catheter: The incidence of ESBL bacteria

Urinary tract infections due to the presence of a urinary catheter represent a real problem for patients who have to carry such an invasive device for a long time.Our aim was to identify the susceptibility of extended spectrum beta lactamases (ESBL) versus non-ESBL bacteria to antibiotics in urinary tract infections in patients who are chronic carriers of urinary catheters.The retrospective study included a period of 5 years, a total of 405 patients who are chronic carriers of urinary catheters, admitted to rehabilitation and palliative care units.Escherichia coli (E coli) was isolated in 41.2% of patients, Klebsiella pneumoniae (K pneumoniae) in 24.7%, and Proteus mirabilis (P mirabilis) in 15.3%. E coli microbial resistance rates ranged from a minimum of 7.5% (nitrofurantoin) to a maximum of 77.1% (ampicillin). In the case of K pneumoniae, microbial resistance ranged from 34.2% (netilmicin) to 73.2% (ceftriaxone). Resistance rates of P mirabilis ranged from 11.1% (cefepim) to 89.5% (ampicillin). Positivity of ESBL bacteria was identified in 47.4% of patients. Resistance rates of ESBL-positive E coli ranged from 50.0% (ceftriaxone) to 88.1% (cefepime), and ESBL-negative E coli rates ranged from 3.4% (cefepime) to 64.4% (amikacin). Resistance rates of ESBL-positive K pneumoniae ranged between 39.1% (netilmicin) and 85.1% (ceftriaxone), and ESBL-negative K pneumoniae between 7.1% (cefepime) and 53.3% (amikacin). In cases of ESBL-positive P mirabilis, rates ranged from 13.3% (cefepime) to 90.3% (ceftriaxone), whereas in cases of ESBL-negative P mirabilis, rates ranged between 8.3% (cefepime) and 80.0% (trimetroprim).Bacteriuria and asymptomatic catheter infection in chronic carriers is an important public health concern due to the frequent presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Our study highlights the need to develop control programs of catheter infections to minimize the risk of infections associated with these medical devices, and also the need for treatment of the infection rather than catheter colonization or contamination.

Antibiotic Stewardship in Nursing Facilities

Misuse and overuse of antibiotic therapy is a frequent cause of resident harm in nursing facilities. As a result, newly released policy and regulatory initiatives will require antibiotic stewardship programs (ASPs) in nursing facilities. Although implementing ASPs can be challenging, improving the quality of antibiotic prescribing is achievable in this setting. The authors review the determinants of antibiotic prescribing in nursing facilities, strategies to improve antibiotic prescribing in this setting, current status of ASPs in nursing facilities, and steps that facilities can take to enhance existing ASP structure and process.

Breaking the Chain of Infection in Older Adults: A Review of Risk Factors and Strategies for Preventing Device-Related Infections

Device-related infections (DRIs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults. Indwelling devices (urinary catheters, percutaneous feeding tubes, and central venous catheters) are frequently used in this vulnerable population. Indwelling devices provide a portal of entry for pathogenic organisms to invade a susceptible host and cause infection and are an important target for infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Within the "Chain of Infection" that leads to DRIs in older adults, multiple opportunities exist to implement interventions that "break the links" and reduce colonization with multidrug-resistant organisms, reduce infections, and improve antimicrobial use.