Hand Hygiene, Smaller Nurse-to-Patient Ratio Have Impact on Reducing MRSA Rates
In his presentation at the 50th Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy earlier this week, Sean Barnes, a PhD student at the University of Maryland, reported data showing that hand hygiene compliance by healthcare workers, coupled with a reduced nurse-to-patient ratio had an impact on reducing the transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the intensive care unit (ICU).
In a one-year study of a 20-bed ICU, Barnes modeled changes in MRSA acquisition rates when altering nurse-to-patient ratios at 1:4, 1:3, 1:2 and finally 1:1, and found that the smallest possible ratio accounted for the most significant reductions, provided that it is economically viable for the healthcare institution.
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The Guardians of Animal Health: Who Are Veterinary Infection Preventionists?
March 21st 2025Veterinary infection control experts Leslie Kollmann, BS, AAS, CVT, CIC, Denise Waiting, LVT, and Leslie Landis, LVT, BS, discuss challenges, zoonotic disease risks, and the importance of education, collaboration, and resource development in animal care facilities.
The Latest on CLABSIs and CAUTIs: Evidence-Based Approaches for Infection Prevention
February 27th 2025Health care–associated infections like CLABSIs and CAUTIs threaten patient safety. Learn evidence-based strategies, new technologies, and prevention protocols to reduce these infections and improve outcomes.
Resilience and Innovation: The Pivotal Contributions of Black Americans to Health Care and Medicine
February 24th 2025During Black History Month, we honor the resilience and contributions of Black medical professionals in health care. Despite barriers, they have led transformative changes, advocating for equitable access and medical excellence. Recognizing their impact ensures a more inclusive health care future for all.
Glove Usage Guideline: From The Joint Commission, CDC, and World Health Organization
February 17th 2025Proper glove use is crucial in health care settings to prevent infections. Guidelines from TJC, CDC, and WHO stress correct selection, usage, and disposal to minimize health care–associated infections (HAIs) and cross-contamination risks. Infection preventionists (IPs) play a key role in educating staff, enforcing compliance, and improving patient safety through standardized glove practices.
