New infection control guidelines released; MRSA, c. Diff and urinary tract infections figure prominently
Oct 10, 2008
Many of the nation’s most prominent infection-control groups on Wednesday released a new set of “consensus” guidelines to help curb the spread of six potentially fatal facility-acquired...
Therapy dogs can transfer MRSA and C. difficile among nursing home residents, researchers say
May 08, 2009
A recent Canadian study finds that methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and C. difficile can be transferred between long-term care residents and therapy dogs, opening a new possible avenue...
C. diff often originates outside healthcare settings, new study suggests
By
Alicia Lasek
Dec 11, 2019
One in 10 patients admitted to a New York hospital with no C. diff symptoms were found to be carriers. Six months later, 38% had symptoms.
Nurses, staff should receive MRSA screenings, researchers say
Apr 23, 2008
Leaders of healthcare facilities should seriously consider having staff members screened for MRSA, the drug-resistant infection that can wreak havoc on senior populations, Swiss and South African researchers...
Social distancing greatly reduced coronavirus infections in China
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 26, 2020
A series of social interventions and a lockdown prevented 94% of infections in one province, according to analysts.
Triclosan hand soaps banned in healthcare: What should LTC facilities do next?
By
Megan DiGiorgio MSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC
May 30, 2018
With a manufacturing cut-off date quickly approaching for soaps containing triclosan, long-term care facilities currently using them may be unsure of what to do next. Here are three steps they should take.
Study confirms need to isolate asymptomatic COVID-19 staff, residents
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 10, 2020
Symptomatic and asymptomatic adults carry a similar amount of the virus, a study of infected patients has found. What’s more, 81% of the asymptomatic participants had no outward signs of disease for...
Team approach helps hospital cut antibiotic use in sepsis case study
By
Alicia Lasek
Jun 28, 2019
A team approach to antimicrobial stewardship resulted in decreased broad spectrum antibiotic use, reduced patient length of stay and cost reductions for a Pennsylvania hospital.
Ask the resident care expert … about precaution types
By
Sherrie Dornberger
Jan 25, 2023
Q: We are confused about the difference between contact precautions and enhanced barrier precautions. Can you help?
Influenza or carbon monoxide poisoning? Be aware, EPA says
Jan 23, 2009
The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to symptoms of the flu. Seniors should be on their guard against both this season, the Environmental Protection Agency warns in a recently released...