Holmes K, Liu X, Moinuddin M
… +1 more, Steinfeld S
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Aug · PMID 41628673
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BACKGROUND: Surveillance for healthcare-associated infections is central to infection prevention but remains complex, resource-intensive, and variable. Large language models like ChatGPT offer potential support but have...BACKGROUND: Surveillance for healthcare-associated infections is central to infection prevention but remains complex, resource-intensive, and variable. Large language models like ChatGPT offer potential support but have not been evaluated for applying National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) definitions. METHODS: This cross-sectional simulation assessed ChatGPT (GPT-4) accuracy and consistency in applying NHSN definitions. A 20-item test from a validated training bank was categorized by domain. Three independent runs were conducted using identical prompts and the 2024 NHSN manual, accessed through the ChatGPT Plus platform. ChatGPT's responses were compared to a validated answer key and benchmarked against infection preventionists (n = 22). Analyses included Wilcoxon signed-rank, Welch's t-test, and Spearman correlation. RESULTS: ChatGPT averaged 45% accuracy across runs, with only 20% of items correct in all 3 attempts. It was more reliable on laboratory-identified events but inconsistent on infections requiring temporal or multi-step logic. No significant correlation emerged between ChatGPT correctness and IP accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: In this simulation-based proof-of-concept, ChatGPT-4 demonstrated limited reliability for complex NHSN surveillance tasks but showed potential in structured, lab-based scenarios. These findings highlight both the current constraints and future opportunities for generative artificial intelligence tools in infection prevention.
Kvernberg J, Rehn M, Johansen IS
… +2 more, Peterslund P, Hansen PM
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 May · PMID 41619857
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BACKGROUND: Sepsis, a leading cause of mortality, is commonly caused by bacterial infections. Flavonifractor plautii is a rare anaerobic, gram-positive rod bacterium that forms part of the human intestinal microbiota. Th...BACKGROUND: Sepsis, a leading cause of mortality, is commonly caused by bacterial infections. Flavonifractor plautii is a rare anaerobic, gram-positive rod bacterium that forms part of the human intestinal microbiota. This narrative review aims to summarize patient characteristics, diagnostic approaches, and antibiotic therapy in patients with F plautii infections, with a particular focus on its role as a potential pathogen in sepsis, in order to inform clinical decision-making. METHODS: The investigators conducted a systematic search of PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases to identify case reports and cohort studies involving F plautii. RESULTS: A wide range of comorbidities were observed, with immunocompromised patients predominating. Most infections originated from gastrointestinal tract and commonly presented as sepsis. Intensive care unit management was required in 8 of the 11 case reports. In all the cases, the pathogen was isolated from blood cultures, and in some reports additionally from cerebrospinal, pleural and synovial fluid. Antibiotic therapy varied, with meropenem and metronidazole being the most commonly used agents, despite antibiotic resistance was rare. DISCUSSION: F plautii should be considered a potential pathogen in immunocompromised patients presenting with abdominal infections and sepsis. CONCLUSIONS: This review illustrates F plautii`s ability to cause severe sepsis. No specific treatment recommendations beyond current sepsis guidelines were identified.
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41616959
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BACKGROUND: Leadership competencies among infection preventionists (IPs) are essential to improving patient safety and reducing health care-associated infections. The Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Preven...BACKGROUND: Leadership competencies among infection preventionists (IPs) are essential to improving patient safety and reducing health care-associated infections. The Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (AL-CIP) recognizes IPs demonstrating advanced leadership, yet little is known about the experiences of certified professionals or how the credential supports leadership development. METHODS: The Leadership Evaluation and Development for Infection Preventionists (LEAD-IP) study used an observational nested cohort design. Secondary data from all AL-CIP applicants across two 2025 certification cycles were analyzed. A nested cohort representing 18% of certified professionals completed a structured 60-minute qualitative interview. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Thirty AL-CIP-certified leaders participated. Seven themes emerged: transition from task-based to systems-level leadership; use of data and structured improvement models; communication and psychological safety as core leadership tools; persistent structural barriers; intentional inclusivity of under-represented teams; proactive risk management; and strengthened leadership identity, confidence, and professional growth through AL-CIP. CONCLUSIONS: AL-CIP-certified professionals described leadership roles requiring systems thinking, data literacy, inclusive engagement, and anticipatory risk management. AL-CIP reinforced leadership confidence and credibility and supported career advancement. These findings highlight the value of leadership-focused training and certification in strengthening the infection prevention and control workforce.
Sood G, Caffrey J, Werthman E
… +3 more, Cabrera A, Dougherty G, Schuster A
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41616958
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BACKGROUND: Bacteremia is a common complication in burn patients. Hospital-onset bacteremia and fungemia (HOB) has been proposed as a quality measure for value-based purchasing programs. We sought to describe the charact...BACKGROUND: Bacteremia is a common complication in burn patients. Hospital-onset bacteremia and fungemia (HOB) has been proposed as a quality measure for value-based purchasing programs. We sought to describe the characteristics of HOB in a regional burn center. METHODS: Patients admitted to the burn intensive care unit from September 2018 through December 2024 were identified through the burn registry. Microbiologic and patient data were extracted from the electronic medical record and Vizient database. RESULTS: One hundred seventy-nine (88.6%) of 202 bacteremia episodes were categorized as HOB in 1,612 patients. The most common organisms isolated were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.2%), methicillin-resistant (15%) and methicillin sensitive (8%) Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae complex (6.6%). Seventy-two (35.6%) of the 202 bacteremia episodes, 66 (36.8%) of the 179 HOB episodes occurred within 2 days after a soft tissue surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS: HOB is common in burn patients and varies with total body surface area burned. In 36.8% of cases, HOB was associated with soft tissue with surgical procedures 2 days before the onset of bacteremia. HOB may not be an indicator of quality for burn patients. Further studies are needed to understand modifiable risk factors for bacteremia in this patient population.
Monsees E, Stroever S, Pogorzelska-Maziarz M
… +3 more, Hall L, Kon S, Gilmartin H
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41605261
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BACKGROUND: A premortem approach was used to identify risk factors and early warning signs for the potential collapse of infection prevention and control (IPC) research and practice. METHODS: A cross-sectional, electroni...BACKGROUND: A premortem approach was used to identify risk factors and early warning signs for the potential collapse of infection prevention and control (IPC) research and practice. METHODS: A cross-sectional, electronic survey was distributed in April 2025. Participants were an international sample of IPC thought leaders who were invited to imagine a hypothetical future in which, by 2029, IPC research and practice had collapsed. They responded to prompts asking for contributing factors, early warning signs, barriers, populations affected and missed opportunities. Responses were analyzed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS: 19 IPC leaders from academia, hospitals, government, and professional organizations participated. Key contributing factors to collapse were restructuring of federal organizations and loss of dedicated IPC funding for education and research. Early warning signs included training program closures, stalled workforce growth, and reduced scholarly output. Underserved, immunocompromised, and older adult populations were seen as most at risk. Missed opportunities included failure to build alternative leadership networks or diversify funding. CONCLUSIONS: The premortem identified potential reasons for the hypothetical collapse of IPC research and practice in addition to opportunities for mitigation, emphasizing partnerships, systems-thinking, and advocacy.
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41605260
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A multimethod study of 6 survey responses and one interview narrative revealed high infection preventionist turnover driven by job pressures, limited resources and communication gaps. Strengthening government-industry co...A multimethod study of 6 survey responses and one interview narrative revealed high infection preventionist turnover driven by job pressures, limited resources and communication gaps. Strengthening government-industry collaboration, structured training, and supportive resources may enhance infection preventionist workforce stability. Future research should use larger, representative samples and effective recruitment strategies to confirm these findings.
Arunachala S, Kumar R, Kumar J
… +5 more, Krishna B, Sampath S, Kaleem Ullah M, Thomas T, Mahesh PA
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41587573
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BACKGROUND: Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) impose a global burden, with hand hygiene (HH) a key preventive measure. Sustaining HH compliance requires behavioral change. Motivational interviewing (MI), promotes self-...BACKGROUND: Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) impose a global burden, with hand hygiene (HH) a key preventive measure. Sustaining HH compliance requires behavioral change. Motivational interviewing (MI), promotes self-reflection and shows promise. This study evaluated MI's effectiveness on HH compliance among health care workers and its impact on HAI rates. METHODS: This prospective interventional study was conducted from June 2018 to February 2019 in a tertiary hospital MICU involving 29 doctors (8 consultants, 21 residents). Three-month pre-intervention phase recorded baseline HH compliance and HAI rates [central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI)]. Intervention included educational, MI sessions, and promotional videos. Post-intervention, HH compliance, readiness to change, and HAI rates were reassessed. Compliance was analysed using multilevel mixed-effects linear regression, and product use was compared using Wilcoxon rank-sum test. P-value <.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Among 650 observed opportunities, HH compliance improved significantly post-intervention (~41% to ~65%-70%; P < .001). Residents improved more than consultants. Alcohol based handrubs and soap use showed no significant change. VAP and CAUTI decreased (P = .0495), while CLABSI remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Multimodal strategy combining education and MI improved HH compliance among doctors. Its impact on HAIs remains uncertain, warranting investigation.
El-Hadidy NM, Salah T, Elbogdady M
… +5 more, Abdelhafez MS, Elnagdy MH, Elwasif SM, El-Gilany AH, Sehsah R
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41581528
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BACKGROUND: Nosocomial transmission of varicella zoster virus (VZV), with susceptible health care workers (HCWs) playing a crucial role, poses a significant challenge in health care settings. This study aimed to assess i...BACKGROUND: Nosocomial transmission of varicella zoster virus (VZV), with susceptible health care workers (HCWs) playing a crucial role, poses a significant challenge in health care settings. This study aimed to assess immunity to VZV among HCWs in transplantation units and to identify susceptibility-associated factors. It also examined the characteristics of staff who contracted varicella during their working lives and the workdays lost. METHODS: A cross-sectional study included HCWs (n = 180) in 3 transplantation units at Mansoura University Hospitals. Participants completed a questionnaire that included sociodemographic and occupational details, as well as medical and vaccination histories. Participants' serum samples were tested for VZV antibodies. RESULTS: Among the participants, 78.3% tested positive for antibodies, 21.7% tested negative, and none had received a vaccination. A lack of prior varicella infection history significantly predicted susceptibility. Those who had chickenpox or herpes zoster while working lost an average of 14 and 8.8 workdays and an estimated 24.6 and 11.4 annual full-day equivalents, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly a quarter of HCWs caring for transplantation patients are susceptible to VZV, below the recommended immunity threshold for preventing nosocomial transmission. Implementing a strategy to document immune status and vaccinate susceptible workers is essential.
Cramer AL, Bartkus M, Nelson AL
… +9 more, Rudel R, Steiner J, Green P, Barnard A, Henry S, Betances M, Pierre CM, Drainoni ML, Barlam TF
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41580089
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BACKGROUND: Our hospital observed a significant increase in nosocomial methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia with half of these cases occurring in the adult intensive care units (ICUs). We tested a set o...BACKGROUND: Our hospital observed a significant increase in nosocomial methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia with half of these cases occurring in the adult intensive care units (ICUs). We tested a set of implementation strategies to improve the mupirocin ordering rate for universal decolonization within the adult ICUs. METHODS: There were 3 implementation phases followed by a washout phase and a final fourth phase. The desired goal was ≥ 85% of eligible patients ordered for mupirocin within 48 hours of admission; 2 consecutive weeks below this goal prompted movement to the next phase. The first phase utilized a top-down method of education. Educational outreach was conducted during phase two. Direct messaging was utilized in phase three. Following the washout, mupirocin was added to the daily ICU rounds checklist in phase four. RESULTS: Across all ICUs, we did not reach the desired goal during the first 2 phases. Phase three was well above the desired goal every week. During the washout, there were 3 consecutive weeks where all ICUs were below 85%. Phase four met the desired goal for all 16 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: Direct messaging and adding mupirocin to the ICU rounds checklist proved to be the most effective strategies for sustainable implementation.
Encinger A, Vasa A, Musil L
… +1 more, Sheffield A
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41577256
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BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices and workforce support. This study assessed Infection Preventionists' (IPs) training needs, challenges, and resources...BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices and workforce support. This study assessed Infection Preventionists' (IPs) training needs, challenges, and resources to inform strategies supporting the IPC workforce through initiatives like CDC Project Firstline. METHODS: An anonymous survey was distributed June-August 2023 through national and state professional networks and public health programs. Participants included 267 IPs across 31 states and all 10 U.S. HHS regions. RESULTS: Respondents were experienced (>10 years: 70%; ≤3 years: 30%); 48% were the only IP in their facility. Leadership support varied by facility size (critical access: 75% strong engagement vs large facilities: 45%). Welch's ANOVA with Games-Howell post-hoc tests showed higher support perceptions in smaller hospitals than mid-sized facilities. Onboarding was structured for 46%, yet only 14% rated it highly effective; mid-sized facilities reported lower onboarding adequacy than smaller hospitals. Continuing education was difficult to access for 62% of IPs, and 59% reported a lack of protected time for training; no significant facility size differences were found. CONCLUSIONS: Three key findings emerged: inconsistent leadership engagement/collaboration, inadequate onboarding/mentorship, and limited continuing education/professional development. Targeted workforce supports and system-level engagement are needed to strengthen IPC programs and sustainability.
Albuquerque K, Lamour J, Joseph T
… +3 more, Munoz L, Curcio JM, Mundy LM
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41570862
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A 7-year institutional commitment to catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) risk mitigation was associated with a sustained reduction from baseline in indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) utilization, CAUTI eve...A 7-year institutional commitment to catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) risk mitigation was associated with a sustained reduction from baseline in indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) utilization, CAUTI events below 1 per 1,000 IUC days, and annual CAUTI Standardized Infection Ratios below national benchmarking standards. Multidisciplinary data-driven assessments of IUC utilization and CAUTI events prompted a series of targeted, feasible, and pragmatic multicomponent interventions.
Rosenthal A, Farhat N, Krishna S
… +6 more, Fishbein J, Valencia A, Prati A, Holland K, Burns JE, Mathew R
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Apr · PMID 41565183
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The necessity and duration of contact precautions for multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in pediatrics is unknown. We compared the incidence rate, level, and trend of healthcare-associated MDROs before and after imple...The necessity and duration of contact precautions for multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in pediatrics is unknown. We compared the incidence rate, level, and trend of healthcare-associated MDROs before and after implementation of revised deisolation criteria allowing for shorter duration of contact isolation for select MDROs. We found that shortening duration of contact isolation was not associated with a statistically significant change in healthcare-associated MDROs in our pediatric hospital.
Reveles KR, Strey KA, Evans C
… +3 more, Sierra D, Herrera V, Tillotson GS
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41563919
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BACKGROUND: Skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents are at increased risk of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). The study describes the role of SNFs in CDI transitions of care among hospitalized patients in the U...BACKGROUND: Skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents are at increased risk of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). The study describes the role of SNFs in CDI transitions of care among hospitalized patients in the United States. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study using the PINC AI Healthcare Database. Older adults (65+ years) were included if they had an index, nonrecurrent CDI hospitalization between July 2019 and December 2022. Patient and CDI characteristics, health outcomes (inpatient mortality, hospital length of stay, and readmissions), and hospital costs were compared between patients admitted from or discharged to a SNF. RESULTS: Among 86,646 index CDI hospitalizations, only 5.1% of CDI patients were admitted from a SNF; however, 28.3% were discharged to a SNF. Patients admitted from SNFs more commonly experienced inpatient mortality (13.5% vs 8.2%), all-cause readmission (31.0% vs 28.0%), higher median hospital costs ($18,610 vs $15,270), and longer median hospital length of stay (8 vs 7 days) (P < .05 for all). Similar trends were noted for patients discharged to a SNF. CONCLUSIONS: Older, hospitalized CDI patients originating from SNFs disproportionately experience poor health outcomes and financial burden. Over one-quarter of CDI patients were discharged to a SNF suggesting a need for higher levels of health care following CDI.
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41548967
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BACKGROUND: After COVID-19, vaccination rates declined. This study sought to determine the impact of a focused vaccine education curriculum on teenagers' knowledge and their ability to educate near-peers about vaccines....BACKGROUND: After COVID-19, vaccination rates declined. This study sought to determine the impact of a focused vaccine education curriculum on teenagers' knowledge and their ability to educate near-peers about vaccines. METHODS: High school students were recruited from Detroit schools to participate in a program which taught about vaccines and teaching methods. Pre and post surveys were administered to participants to assess attitudes and knowledge regarding vaccines. The students attended outreach events and taught about vaccines to youth. Pre and post surveys were administered to the youth at the events to assess their growth of knowledge. All results were analyzed using paired 2-tailed t tests with a significance of P < .05. RESULTS: High school students enrolled in the vaccine course scored significantly higher on the postknowledge test compared to the pretest (Pre: 56.7%, Post: 78.3%, P = .041). Youth at the outreach events scored significantly higher after the presentation (Pre: 45%, Post: 82%, P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: A vaccine education program reaffirmed high school students' ideas and increased their knowledge. Additionally, peer driven education improved students' understanding of fundamental knowledge related to vaccines. This study demonstrated the validity of a focused vaccine curriculum to educate and confirmed the relevance of peer-to-peer education in discussing health-related topics.
Leal J, Zhang Z, Armstrong L
… +10 more, Pitchko J, Lee B, Versluys K, Chow B, Ellison J, Pfister T, Woolsey S, Jean GS, Smith S, Rennert-May E
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41547515
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OBJECTIVE: Evaluate adherence using the antimicrobial-resistant organism (ARO) admission screening tool in the provincial clinical information system (CIS) in Alberta and its relationship with hospital ARO rates. METHODS...OBJECTIVE: Evaluate adherence using the antimicrobial-resistant organism (ARO) admission screening tool in the provincial clinical information system (CIS) in Alberta and its relationship with hospital ARO rates. METHODS: A population-based, serial cross-sectional study examined admissions to acute care facilities using the CIS and where ARO screening for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and carbapenemase-producing organisms was completed by healthcare providers (January 1, 2020-March 31, 2024). Adherence was the proportion of admissions with a completed ARO screening tool in the CIS. MRSA and carbapenemase-producing organisms colonization or infection rates were incident cases per 1,000 admissions or 10,000 patient-days, respectively. Generalized linear models assessed factors associated with adherence. Spearman rank correlations and generalized linear models assessed the relationship between adherence and ARO rates. RESULTS: Ninety-two percent of eligible facilities were included. Overall adherence ranged from 43% to 65%. After adjustment for bed size and health zone, adherence declined with increasing months of CIS use (aIRR 0.987, 95% CI 0.986-0.987). Higher adherence was associated with lower overall MRSA infection rates (r = -0.68) and remained in adjusted models (aIRR 0.99, 95% CI 0.986-0.994). CONCLUSIONS: Greater adherence to ARO admission screening was associated with lower MRSA infection rates, although the effect size was small. Further work is needed to clarify the relationship between ARO screening and ARO transmission in hospitals.
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41544774
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Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese therapy involving needle insertion at specific points, is a treatment that is used by millions of people in the US each year and is increasingly integrated into conventional healthcare...Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese therapy involving needle insertion at specific points, is a treatment that is used by millions of people in the US each year and is increasingly integrated into conventional healthcare settings. While generally considered safe, viral and bacterial infections linked to acupuncture have been reported, often due to lapses in infection control practices. This study reviewed publicly available disciplinary records from US state acupuncture boards to identify infection control-related variances. Seven states reported 28 disciplinary cases between 1997 and 2024, with a total of 44 variances that were categorized into eight groups. Improper sharps disposal was the most frequent issue and often co-occurred with other variances, suggesting it may indicate broader infection control deficiencies. Although such cases were uncommon, the findings underscore the need for consistent enforcement of infection prevention standards and improved patient education to recognize and question unsafe practices. Patients who have adverse events or observe unsafe practices should be empowered to seek treatment and report their experience to their state licensing board or the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Gearges C, Davis MC, Chan AK
… +4 more, Chase LM, Wattengel BA, Lesse A, Mergenhagen KA
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41544773
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BACKGROUND: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a critical pathogen in diabetic foot infections (DFIs), contributing to prolonged hospitalizations, and morbidity. MRSA nares colonization screening...BACKGROUND: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a critical pathogen in diabetic foot infections (DFIs), contributing to prolonged hospitalizations, and morbidity. MRSA nares colonization screening has shown utility in the negative predictive (NPV) value of MRSA infections, though its role in DFIs remains under-characterized. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 57,213 hospitalized patients with DFIs across 9 U.S. census regions to evaluate implications of MRSA nares screening for DFIs and to assess regional variations in outcomes. NPV was calculated regionally. Multivariable logistic regression assessed independent predictors of 30-day mortality. RESULTS: MRSA wound culture positivity ranged from 16.1-24.3%. NPV ranged from 86.4% (East South-Central region) to 91.7% (West North Central region), with most regions clustering between 88% and 91%. MRSA nares positivity was associated with 38% increased odds of 30-day mortality (OR 1.38, 95%CI 1.23-1.56). CONCLUSIONS: MRSA nares screening demonstrates high NPV across all regions, supporting its role as a valuable tool for de-escalating empiric anti-MRSA therapy in DFIs. Its limited PPV necessitates confirmatory cultures for positive cases. MRSA nares colonization also serves as an independent predictor of short-term mortality, suggesting its potential use in prognostic risk stratification.
Somani J, Rosa R, Manzanillo K
… +3 more, Dinh H, Rosello G, Abbo LM
Am J Infect Control
· 2026 Jul · PMID 41544772
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BACKGROUND: We describe a multifaceted intervention deployed amidst a blood culture (BC) bottle shortage and its impact on BC yields. METHODS: Cross-sectional study conducted at a large safety-net hospital. BC bottle con...BACKGROUND: We describe a multifaceted intervention deployed amidst a blood culture (BC) bottle shortage and its impact on BC yields. METHODS: Cross-sectional study conducted at a large safety-net hospital. BC bottle conservation strategies focused on improving blood volume collection, discouraging orders for low-yield conditions, limiting BC orders to 1 set per patient and restricting repeat BC to greater than 48-hour intervals. Trends in BC positivity rates and bloodstream infection events were analyzed using control charts, with a 13-month baseline period, and 12-month intervention period. RESULTS: A total of 35,449 BCs were analyzed. The overall median percent positivity increased from 8.6% to 12.6% (P = .001). In the Emergency Department, the median percent positivity rose from 12.4% to 14.3% (P = .03); in Intensive Care Units (ICU), from 6.8% to 11.6% (P = .001); and in Medical-Surgical units, from 4.9% to 9.0% (P = .001). No significant variability in the counts of positive BCs was observed. The median blood volume per set increased from 5.7 to 7.5 mL (P = .001). Vancomycin use and acute ICU transfers remained stable. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of BC bottle conservation measures did not negatively impact BC yields or patient safety indicators. Prospective studies are needed to re-evaluate traditional BC ordering and collection practices.