Antimicrobial Protocols Research Articles

Two Cases of the Emerging Candida auris in a university hospital from Saudi Arabia

Candida auris is an opportunistic multidrug-resistant pathogen that was first isolated in 2009 and has since been reported from about 30 countries. In Saudi Arabia, only four cases of C. auris have previously been reported; here, we report two new cases of this infection. Both patients were polymorbid and had long hospitalization periods with recurrent intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. The findings of the tissue/blood cultures and antimicrobial therapy protocols are explained in the case report. Urine culture in both cases was positive for C. auris, and the colonies grew well at 42°C. The fungal isolates were confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The first patient was treated with the recommended dose of caspofungin, but he passed away. The second patient was also planned to be treated with caspofungin, but he passed away before the treatment could be initiated. The present cases further corroborate signs of a growing number of reports of C. auris in patients with high-risk factors, such as hospitalization in ICU, multiple chronic conditions and prolonged antimicrobial treatment exposure. It also highlights the need for hospitals to further improve their infection control practices to prevent nosocomial infections such as C. auris.

Prevalence and molecular characteristics of ESBL and AmpC \u03b2 -lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae strains isolated from UTIs in Egypt

BackgroundInfections caused by Enterobacteriaceae are mainly treated with the β-lactam antibiotics, nevertheless, the emergence of species with plasmid-borne β-lactamases has decreased the efficacy of these antibiotics. Therefore, continuing studies on the resistance pattern of different regions is important for assessment of proper antimicrobial therapy protocols. The study aimed to characterize extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC β –lactamase (AmpC) producing Enterobacteriaceae isolated from community-acquired UTIs in Egypt.MethodsOut of 705 urine samples, 440 Enterobacteriaceae isolates were investigated to detect ESBL and AmpC β -lactamases producers by phenotypic and molecular methods.ResultsOut of 440 Enterobacteriaceae isolates, 311 were identified as ESBL producers by phenotypic testing. ESBL genes were detected in 308 isolates. BlaCTX-M-type was the most prevalent 254 (81.6%), out of them blaCTXM-15 was the commonest (152, 48.8%) followed by blaCTX-M-1 (140, 45%), blaCTX-M-8 (72, 23.1%) and lastly blaCTX-M-2 (4, 1.3%).blaTEM gene also was detected in a high rate (189, 60.7%). Two hundred and thirty-five (75.5%) of ESBL producers harbored blaCTX-M in combination with blaTEM and/or blaSHV genes. Multiple drug resistance in the ESBL-producers was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than in non–ESBL producers. Imipenem was the most effective drug against ESBL producers. Among 35 cefoxitin resistant isolates, 18 (51.4%) identified as carrying AmpC genes by multiplex PCR. Within AmpC β -lactamase genes, DHA gene was the predominant gene (15, 42.3%). CIT and MOX genes were also present, but in a low rate (5, 14.2% and 4, 11.4%) respectively. Co-existence of multiple AmpC genes was detected exclusively in K. pneumoniae isolates. E. coli isolates harbored DHA gene only. However, FOX gene was not detected in the study isolates. Seventeen of isolates carrying AmpC genes were also positive for ESBL genes.ConclusionThe study shows that the prevalence of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae spread in south Egypt is alarming, however AmpC β -lactamase production is not so high.

Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Program in Private Hospitals in the Philippines: Its Acceptability, Barriers, and Enablers

Background: Antimicrobials are drugs that are often misused and inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing often results in poor clinical outcome and drug resistance. Monitoring and regulation of antimicrobial use is currently being done by the Department of Health through the Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Program. There is a need to determine the factors that affect successful implementation of an AMS program in private hospitals in the Philippines. This study was conducted to identify the enablers and potential barriers in implementing an AMS program in nine (9) private hospitals. Methodology: A concurrent mixed methods design was used to assess various stakeholders’ (physicians, administrators, other AMS members) perceptions of existing or proposed AMS programs, and to identify barriers and enablers in their implementation. Quantitative data were collected using self-administered survey questionnaire to assess clinician’s acceptance of AMS programs. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured one-on-one interviews of clinicians and other AMS personnel and focus group discussions (FGD) of selected clinician groups. Data were gathered from October 2018 to October 2019. Results: 409 clinicians were surveyed, 52 were interviewed and 46 sat for 13 sessions of FGDs. Overall, the survey established that physicians were well aware of antimicrobial resistance problem. Majority of the clinicians indicated general agreement with the currently practiced antimicrobial protocols in their hospitals and with the AMS program. However, there were disagreements in perceptions with how antimicrobial restrictions impair prescribing practices and overuse of the same. These responses were strong points of discussion during the Key Informant Interviews (KII) and FGDs. All respondents were amenable with the institutionalization of an AMS program in their hospitals. The hospital leadership’s commitment was determined to be the key enabler of a successful AMS program’s implementation. Barriers identified for hospitals with existing AMS programs were: lack of dedicated staff, resistance and/or non-cooperation of physicians, lack of support from non-medical departments, and inadequate cooperation between hospital personnel. Barriers identified, regardless of the status of the AMS programs were: deficiency in knowledge with developing and implementing an AMS program, inadequate information dissemination, unavailability of an IT-based monitoring for antibiotic use, and the influence of pharmaceutical companies on stakeholders with regards to antimicrobial use. Conclusion: Similar enablers and barriers to a successful implementation of an AMS program were seen in the different hospitals. A hospital leadership’s commitment was determined to be the key enabler. The success or failure of any AMS program appears to depend on physician understanding, commitment and support for such a program. By involving the main players in an AMS program- the hospital administrators, clinicians and other key members, perceived barriers will be better identified and overcome, and enablers will help allow a successful implementation of an AMS program.

Effects of shortened course of antimicrobials in surgical management of mid 1/3rd facial fractures

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing challenge confronting healthcare professionals, posing a serious threat to global public health. Without effective antimicrobials, the success of major surgery can be compromised, undermining many advances in healthcare. A pilot study within our OMFS unit demonstrated perioperative use of various antimicrobials for varied lengths of time when surgically managing facial fractures. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO) global action plan on antimicrobial resistance, with our microbiology team we developed and implemented a shortened antimicrobial protocol for use in the surgical management of mid 1/3rd facial fractures.

New Insights into the Microbial Profiles of Infected Root Canals in Traumatized Teeth.

Traumatic dental injuries in young individuals are often exposed to the invasion of oral microorganisms that leads to pulp necrosis. Infective necrosis in permanent teeth not-fully-developed causes aberrant root formation. Regeneration endodontic treatments (RETs) have shown promising results by promoting continued root development by stem cells. Critical to the success of RET is the thorough disinfection of the pulpal space. To establish effective antimicrobial protocols for root canal disinfection, the invading microorganisms need to be identified. In the present study, we use a combination of culture-based and high-throughput molecular sequencing techniques to investigate the microbial profiles from traumatized teeth (30 cases) and controls, i.e., teeth with pulp infections not caused by trauma (32 cases). Overall, a high microbial diversity in traumatized necrotic teeth was observed. Eubacterium yurii subsps. yurii and margaretiae, as well as key ‘bridging oral species’ F. nucleatum sp., Polymorphum and Corynebacterium matruchotti, were highly associated with traumatized teeth. The microbial compositions of traumatized teeth differed considerably from those of infected teeth not caused by trauma. Age and tooth position also influence microbial compositions. In conclusion, we show that the root canal microflora of traumatized teeth is highly diverse, and it differs from root canal infections not caused by trauma.

Developing targeted antimicrobial treatment protocols for mastitis

Veterinary RecordVolume 187, Issue 10 p. 398-400 Research Developing targeted antimicrobial treatment protocols for mastitis Lisa Morgans, Corresponding Author lisam@i4agri.org Precision Livestock, Innovation for Agriculture, Stoneleigh, UKemail: lisam@i4agri.orgSearch for more...

Multidrug resistant Aeromonas infection following medical leech therapy: A case report and development of a joint antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention protocol

ObjectiveAeromonas sp. infections are a recognized complication of medical leech therapy (MLT). In patients requiring MLT, ciprofloxacin or trimethoprim–sulphamethoxazole are commonly used to prevent such nosocomial infections. After a patient at our institution developed a MLT-associated multi-drug resistant (MDR) Aeromonas infection, we developed and evaluated a joint antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention protocol for MLT at our institution. MethodsWe describe a case of a surgical site infection with MDR Aeromonas following MLT that was resistant to typically prescribed prophylactic antimicrobials, and development of a new leech culture protocol to proactively monitor for antimicrobial resistance among our institution’s leech supply. We also report the rates of MLT-associated infections prior to and following implementation of this protocol and the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles detected in leech culture at our institution. ResultsBetween October 2014 and February 2018, 46 patients received MLT at our institution. Other than the case described in this report, no other instances of MLT-related infections were noted during this time period. Culture results from 22 leeches in six batches since February 2018 showed that all were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, TMP-SMX, and ceftriaxone. Since initiation of a leech culture protocol, no further cases of MLT-associated infections have been reported at our institution. ConclusionsIn light of increasing antimicrobial resistance and the potentially devastating consequences of MLT-associated infections, institutions offering MLT should be aware of these risks and ensure that protocols are in place to minimize infection risks for patients.

Epidemiology of Posttransrectal Prostate Biopsy Bloodstream Infections and Impact of a Screening Program

Background: Antibiotic prophylaxis choice for transrectal prostate biopsy (TRPB) has been affected by the emergence of fluoroquinolone-resistant Escherichia coli (FQRE). Prebiopsy FQRE screening and targeted antibiotic prophylaxis may reduce post-TRPB bloodstream infection (BSI). We assessed the impact of a FQRE screening program on post-TRPB BSIs at an academic medical center. Methods: We implemented a FQRE screening program and targeted TRPB antimicrobial prophylaxis guidelines on May 1, 2017 (Fig. 1). We performed a retrospective cohort study of all TRPB and compared the incidence of post-TRPB BSI (within 7 calendar days) per 100 procedures before the intervention (January, 1, 2016, to April 30, 2017) and to the incidence after the intervention (May 1, 2017, to August 31, 2019). We used a subanalysis to compare BSI incidence between patients with positive (+) and negative () FQRE screens and appropriate prophylaxis use, defined as administration of guideline-recommended antibiotics. The Fisher exact test of independence was used to analyze nominal data. Results: The analysis included 2,157 TRPB procedures: 647 in the preintervention period and 1,510 in the postintervention period. FQRE screening compliance was 61% (n = 914) in the postintervention group (Fig. 2); 168 FQRE screens (18%) were positive. The median time from FQRE screen to procedure was 40 days (IQR, 13–69). Postprocedure BSI rates were higher in than those in the preimplementation group; however, this difference was not statistically significant (0.86 vs 0.46; OR, 2.01; P = .42). Among FQRE-screened patients, BSI rates differed significantly between FQRE+ and FQRE patients (2.98 vs 0.54; OR, 5.67; 95% CI, 1.21–28.94; P = .01). Screened patients receiving appropriate prophylaxis had lower BSI rates than those receiving inappropriate prophylaxis; however, this was not statistically significant (1.10 vs 2.02; OR, 0.54; P = .35). The most common BSI pathogen was E. coli (2 (67%) before implementation and 10 (77%) after implementation). Also, 5 E. coli BSIs (50%) were fluoroquinolone resistant in the postimplementation group compared to 1 (33%) in the preimplementation group. Of 13 postimplementation BSIs, 6 occurred in patients who received aminoglycosides perioperatively; however, all 6 BSI pathogens were aminoglycoside sensitive. Conclusions: Compliance with our FQRE screening program and antimicrobial prophylaxis protocol was moderate. Although pre- and postimplementation differences in BSI rates were not statistically significant, the high failure rate among patients receiving aminoglycosides was concerning and led to a change in TRPB prophylaxis guidelines. Reasons for increased BSI risk among FQRE+ patients may include prophylaxis agent, dose, timing, or other confounding factors associated with drug-resistant pathogens. Facilities implementing FQRE screening protocols should evaluate the efficacy of their program and periodically review screening compliance, prophylaxis dosing and timing adherence, and impact on patient-level outcomes.Funding: NoneDisclosures: None

Are Early-Onset Sepsis Evaluations and Empiric Antibiotics Mandatory for All Neonates Admitted with Respiratory Distress?

The objective of this study was to evaluate the success and safety of an antimicrobial stewardship protocol for neonates admitted with respiratory distress at birth. A retrospective cohort analysis of all infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with respiratory distress from January 2013 to February 2018 was conducted. In April 2016, an antimicrobial stewardship protocol was implemented, dividing neonates into two groups: maternal indications for delivery (no infectious risk factors for early-onset sepsis [EOS]) and fetal indications (risk factors present) for delivery. Neonates with risk factors for EOS were started on empiric antibiotics, those who lacked risk factors were observed. Paired sample t-test and descriptive statistics were used to compare the pre- and postprotocol implementation. There were no missed cases of EOS in our study. Management with empiric antibiotics decreased from 95 to 41% of neonates with respiratory distress after initiation of the protocol. Newborns with a lower mean (±standard errors of the mean [SEM]) gestational age were more likely to receive empiric antibiotics (35.1 ± 0.4 [range: 23-42 weeks] vs. 37.7 ± 0.2 weeks [range: 24-42 weeks]; p < 0.05). Similar findings were seen for neonates with lower mean birth weights (2,627 ± 77 [range: 390-5,440 g] vs. 3,078 ± 51 g [range: 620-6,260 g]; p < 0.05). The antibiotic stewardship protocol safely reduces the administration of empiric antibiotics to symptomatic neonates without missing any cases of sepsis. · Newborns born with respiratory distress often receive broad-spectrum antibiotics upon NICU admission.. · An antibiotic stewardship program was created for this population and considered perinatal risk factors for sepsis when determining whether antibiotics were indicated.. · This antibiotic stewardship program was safe and effective, significantly reducing antibiotic use without missing any cases of sepsis..

Multidrug-resistant bacteria in diabetic foot infections: Experience from a portuguese tertiary centre.

In recent years, the emergence of antibiotic resistant pathogens made increasingly difficult to establish appropriate empiric antimicrobial therapy protocols for acute diabetic foot infection (DFI) treatment. Early recognition of the population at‐risk for multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacterial infection is of paramount importance in order to decrease large‐spectrum antibiotic overuse. This study used retrospective cohort study in a multidisciplinary tertiary diabetic foot unit. Patients with severe DFI were included and divided according to their infection resistance profile (susceptible vs MDR bacteria). Data regarding their comorbidities and length of hospital stay were collected. The primary endpoint was to determine the risk factors for MDR infections and to evaluate if these were associated with an increased length of stay (LOS). A total of 112 microbial isolates were included. Predominance of Gram‐positive bacteria was observed and 22.3% of isolated bacteria were MDR. Previous hospitalisation was associated with a higher likelihood of MDR infection. MDR bacterial infection was also associated with an increased LOS (P = .0296). Our study showed a high incidence of MDR bacteria in patients with a DFI, especially in those who had a recent hospitalisation. MDR infections were associated with a prolonged LOS and represent a global public health issue for which emergent measures are needed.

Assessing the utility of leukocyte differential cell counts for predicting morbidity, mortality, and growth in a grain-fed veal facility: A prospective single cohort study

Selective antimicrobial treatment strategies present a means to reduce antimicrobial use at the time of arrival at a veal or dairy beef operation. On-farm machine leukocyte differential cell counts (DCC) that can be acquired quickly may be useful to augment calf risk identification protocols. The objective of this study was to assess the utility of DCC taken at the time of arrival at a grain-fed veal facility and 72 h postarrival for determining morbidity risk, mortality risk, and growth during the production cycle. Data were collected between June and October 2018 from 240 calves upon arrival and from a subset of 160 calves 72 h postarrival at a commercial grain-fed veal facility in Ontario, Canada. Blood samples were evaluated using the QScout BLD test for leukocyte DCC (Advanced Animal Diagnostic, Morrisville, NC). All calves were screened using a standardized health examination, and a blood sample was collected to evaluate serum total protein and DCC. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed for both morbidity and mortality outcomes. Mixed linear regression models were constructed to evaluate average daily gain. Results from data collected at the time of arrival suggest that total protein values ≥5.2 g/dL reduced the hazard of mortality and that a rectal temperature >39.6°C was associated with an increased hazard of morbidity. Calves that were dehydrated gained less, whereas calves with an increased lymphocyte count had a higher rate of growth. Results from DCC collected 72 h postarrival suggest that lymphocyte counts between 4.8 and 5.8 × 109 cells/L decreased the hazard of mortality and counts >7.0 × 109 cells/L decreased the hazard of morbidity, whereas neutrophil counts >6.0 × 109 cells/L increased the hazard of mortality. This study demonstrates that machine DCC at the time of arrival and 72 h after arrival has potential for use in identifying high-risk calves that might require treatment, as part of selective antimicrobial therapy protocols, with the purpose of reducing antimicrobial use without sacrificing animal health in veal facilities.

Effects on clinical outcomes of adjunctive moxifloxacin versus amoxicillin plus metronidazole in periodontitis patients harboring Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia: exploratory analyses from a clinical trial.

<p>Objective: Considering the etiopathogenesis of periodontitis, it is relevant to evaluate the efficacy of the adjunctive use of systemic antimicrobials based on microbial occurrence. This report explores whether patients harboring Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), or Tannerella forsythia (Tf) at baseline could receive greater clinical benefits from adjunctive moxifloxacin (MXF) and amoxicillin plus metronidazole (AM+MT) in comparison to patients without the presence of these microorganisms before therapy for generalized periodontitis. A control group was established that received subgingival debridement (SD) alone.<br /> Method and materials: Thirty-six patients younger than 30 years of age were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: SD plus placebo, systemic MXF with SD, or AM+MT combined with SD. Subgingival samples were studied. The effects of the therapies on probing depth and clinical attachment level, including interactions with Aa, Pg, or Tf at baseline, were explored using regression models.<br /> Results: At 6 months, all treatment groups showed improved clinical outcomes in patients harboring Aa, Pg, or Tf at baseline compared to the patients who did not harbor these microorganisms at baseline. Indeed, in the presence of Aa, Pg, or Tf at baseline, the patients receiving antimicrobial protocols showed the most significant gains compared to the control group. Furthermore, the percentage of sites ≥ 6 mm was reduced in the test groups, compared to the control group; these periodontopathogens were not present in sites with probing depth ≥ 6 mm in the MXF group. The interactions of Aa, Pg, and Tf with the test groups significantly improved clinical parameters at 6 months (P &lt; .001). Interestingly, the R2 value in the models that explored clinical attachment gain produced a high degree of correlation (&gt; 0.75), indicating that a high percentage (&gt; 75%) of the total variation in clinical attachment level gain can be explained by the independent variables.<br /> Conclusions: Although all patients benefited from the treatments, patients harboring Aa, Pg, or Tf at baseline showed improved clinical benefits at 6 months, suggesting that Aa, Pg, or Tf at baseline may change the effects of systemic MXF and AM+MT in generalized periodontitis. After 6 months, Aa, Pg, and Tf were not present in sites with probing depth ≥ 6 mm in the MXF group.</p>.

Community-acquired bacterial meningitis in adults: emergency department management protocol.

Acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) is a rare but disabling infectious condition that requires a performant multidisciplinary management approach. Between 70 and 90 adult patients are diagnosed with community-acquired ABM in Belgium annually, and reported case fatality rates range from 17 to 40%. The currently available guidelines provide evidence-based guidance on how to manage this disease. However, these guidelines do not translate the evidence to the daily practice at the emergency department in a Belgian healthcare context. We created a taskforce in University Hospitals Leuven consisting of experts with complementary expertise in managing this disease: neurology, neurosurgery, intensive care medicine, microbiology and infectious diseases. The taskforce agreed upon a flowchart containing seven management steps encompassing all relevant phases in emergency ABM management. In addition to the focus on timely and adequate initiation of antimicrobial treatment, the flowchart and protocol also provide guidance on practical hurdles such as how to assess the safety of performing a lumbar puncture and when to refer patients to the intensive care department. This protocol was implemented in University Hospitals Leuven and fosters inter-disciplinary coordination of ABM care.

Effects of Rose Bengal‐ and Methylene Blue‐Mediated Potassium Iodide‐Potentiated Photodynamic Therapy on Enterococcus faecalis: A Comparative Study

This study was performed to compare the use of methylene blue (MB) and rose bengal (RB) in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) targeting Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) bacteria in planktonic and biofilm forms with potassium iodide (KI) potentiation. E. faecalis bacteria in planktonic form were exposed to antimicrobial PDT protocols activating MB and RB, with or without KI potentiation, following laser irradiation with different exposure times, 60 mW/cm2 laser power, and different photosensitizer agent (PS)/potentiator concentrations to observe relationships among the variables. Two continuous-wave diode lasers were used for irradiation (red light: λ = 660 nm and green light: λ = 565 nm). The pre-irradiation time was 10 minutes. The vitality of E. faecalis biofilm was assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, and the morphology was determined by scanning electron microscopy. The effects on the proliferation of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs) were analyzed by cell counting kit-8 assay. The staining effect of antimicrobial PDT on dentin slices was investigated. Statistical analysis using a one-way analysis of variance was done. KI-potentiated RB and MB antimicrobial PDT both effectively eradicated E. faecalis bacteria in planktonic and biofilm forms. The minimum bactericidal concentrations of PSs (±100 mM KI) were obtained through PDT on planktonic E. faecalis, and the optimal light parameters were 60 mW/cm2 , 6 J/cm2 for 100 seconds. KI-potentiated PDT effectively strengthened the ability to inhibit E. faecalis biofilm with 86.50 ± 5.78% for MB (P = 0.0015 < 0.01) and 91.50 ± 1.75% for RB (P = 0.0418 < 0.05) of bactericidal rate, with less toxicity for SCAPs (P < 0.001) and less staining. KI could reduce the staining induced by antimicrobial PDT on dentin slices. A combination of KI and antimicrobial PDT may be a useful alternative to conventional disinfection methods in endodontic treatment. MB and RB antimicrobial PDT at much lower concentrations with KI could hopefully achieve disinfection effects comparable with those of 1.5% NaClO while causing few adverse effects on SCAPs. KI helps to avoid staining problems associated with high concentrations of photosensitizer agents. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, LLC.

P1318EPIDEMIOLOGY OF BLOODSTREAM INFECTIONS IN A SCOTTISH HAEMODIALYSIS POPULATION WITH FOCUS ON VASCULAR ACCESS METHOD

Abstract Background and Aims Haemodialysis (HD) vascular access infections account for approximately 28% of infection-associated hospitalisations in patients with end-stage renal disease1. Traditionally there has been focus on Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infections, however there is increasing recognition of the burden of Gram-negative bloodstream infection (BSI) in the HD population2,3. Epidemiological analysis has enabled surveillance of the impact of antimicrobial protocols on BSI rate and outcome2. Scottish Registry data reflects that access methods are changing alongside the HD population phenotype, with increasing use of arterio-venous graft (AVG) and central venous catheters for incident and prevalent HD access3. In this study, the rate of BSI in a contemporary Scottish HD cohort is reported by microbial species and vascular access type: arterio-venous fistula (AVF), AVG, tunnelled central venous catheter (TCVC) or non-tunnelled central venous catheter (NTCVC). Method The Strathclyde Electronic Renal Patient Record (SERPR) database for the West of Scotland was utilised to obtain retrospective observational data all adult patients attending inpatient and outpatient renal services across seven dialysis units between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017. All BSIs were analysed as separate episodes if more than 14 days apart, regardless of the suspected source of infection, and expressed as events per 1000 HD days. The number of days each patient was exposed to each vascular access subtype was calculated utilising the prospectively recorded HD access observations. Prevalent HD vascular access type was noted for each BSI. Results There were 786 patients who underwent HD with 217 503 total HD days over the study period. A total of 147 separate BSIs occurred, involving 115 patients. A total of 168 organisms were encountered in these BSIs. There were 49 BSIs during 126, 674 HD days using AVF access, 14 BSIs during 25, 511 AVG HD days, 81 BSIs during 64, 353 TCVC HD days and 3 BSIs during 965 NTCVC HD days. Table 1 outlines the BSI rates by vascular access and organisms identified Staphylococci-related BSI comprised the majority of events (51.7%), with S. aureus implicated in 47% of these BSIs. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most commonly identified organisms in the AVF, TCVC and NTCVC groups, with S. aureus the leading organism in the AVG group. Gram-negative organisms accounted for the next largest proportion of BSIs (27%) and were more prevalent in the TCVC and NTCVC groups. Conclusion AVF access subtype was associated with the lowest BSI rate, and NTCVC the highest which is in keeping with previous studies and one of the drivers for AVF as the preferred HD access type internationally. Staphylococci continue to represent a large proportion of BSIs in this cohort, however other organisms are prevalent. BSIs caused by Gram-negative organisms and Candida species were represented more heavily in the TCVC and NTCVC population, perhaps representing co-morbidity of these groups.

Guidelines for Perioperative Care for Pancreatoduodenectomy: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Recommendations 2019.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways are now implemented worldwide with strong evidence that adhesion to such protocol reduces medical complications, costs and hospital stay. This concept has been applied for pancreatic surgery since the first published guidelines in 2012. This study presents the updated ERAS recommendations for pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) based on the best available evidence and on expert consensus. A systematic literature search was conducted in three databases (Embase, Medline Ovid and Cochrane Library Wiley) for the 27 developed ERAS items. Quality of randomized trials was assessed using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement checklist. The level of evidence for each item was determined using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation system. The Delphi method was used to validate the final recommendations. A total of 314 articles were included in the systematic review. Consensus among experts was reached after three rounds. A well-implemented ERAS protocol with good compliance is associated with a reduction in medical complications and length of hospital stay. The highest level of evidence was available for five items: avoiding hypothermia, use of wound catheters as an alternative to epidural analgesia, antimicrobial and thromboprophylaxis protocols and preoperative nutritional interventions for patients with severe weight loss (> 15%). The current updated ERAS recommendations for PD are based on the best available evidence and processed by the Delphi method. Prospective studies of high quality are encouraged to confirm the benefit of current updated recommendations.

Results of a national system-wide quality improvement initiative for the implementation of evidence-based infection prevention practices in Brazilian hospitals

Quality improvement (QI) methods are recommended to address healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) in hospitals, but whereas internal initiatives have been widely studied, there is little evidence on the application and effect of a QI approach from an external system-wide perspective. To analyse the effect of a national system-wide QI initiative aimed at promoting HCAI prevention via regulatory interventions in Brazil. A QI cycle approach designed and assessed with a before-and-after quasi-experimental design was implemented by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA), targeting 1869 hospitals. Eleven evidence-based quality indicators related to HCAI prevention and a composite measure were assembled, shared, and assessed; the intervention to improve was then based on participatory multifaceted regulatory actions. Absolute and relative improvements were estimated after the intervention. In all, 563 hospitals (30.1% response) totalling 86,837 beds participated in the baseline assessment, and 681 hospitals (36.4% response) totalling 101,231 beds in the second. Ten of the 11 criteria improved (P < 0.05), as well as the composite indicator (P= 0.001) in all the regions of the country, particularly in the group of hospitals participating at baseline. 'Hand hygiene (HH) infrastructure' reached 100% (baseline: 97.9; P= 0.001), 'HH protocol' 96.9% (baseline: 92.9; P= 0.001), 'HH monitoring' 70% (baseline: 60.7; P < 0.001) and 'existence of antimicrobial prescription protocol' 80.7% (baseline: 73.2; P < 0.001), among others. The HCAI rates of the participating hospitals decreased after the intervention (P < 0.05). The QI cycle approach was useful in guiding system-wide interventions for patient safety. External regulation was feasible and effective in promoting internal HCAI prevention nationwide.

Differences in isolation rate and antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria isolated from foals with sepsis at admission and after ≥48 hours of hospitalization.

BackgroundAntimicrobial treatment protocols for foals with sepsis that do not improve clinically often are adjusted based on bacteriological and antimicrobial susceptibility testing results from samples collected at hospital admission.ObjectivesTo evaluate whether hospitalization for ≥48 hours affects bacteriological and antimicrobial susceptibility testing results.AnimalsTwo‐hundred sixty‐seven foals <30 days of age admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit and diagnosed with sepsis.MethodsMedical records were reviewed retrospectively to identify foals with sepsis and positive bacteriological cultures. Results from samples collected at hospital admission were compared to those collected ≥48 hours after admission. Logistic regression for clustered data and exact logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.ResultsThree‐hundred fifty‐three unique bacterial isolates were obtained from 231 foals at hospital admission and 92 unique bacterial isolates were obtained from 57 foals after ≥48 hours of hospitalization. Relative isolation frequency after ≥48 hours of hospitalization increased for Acinetobacter spp., 0.6% versus 3.3% (odds ratio [OR], 7.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28‐45.45); Enterococcus spp., 4.8% versus 19.6% (OR, 5.37; 95% CI, 2.64‐10.90); Klebsiella spp., 5.1% versus 10.9% (OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.05‐4.89); Pseudomonas spp., 3.0% versus 7.6% (OR, 3.49; 95% CI, 3.49‐240.50); and Serratia spp., 3.0% versus 5.4% (OR, 20.23; 95% CI, 2.20‐186.14). Bacteria isolated after ≥48 hours of hospitalization were less susceptible to all tested antimicrobial drugs, except for imipenem.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceDecreased antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria isolated after ≥48 hours of hospitalization provides a rationale for repeated bacteriological culture and susceptibility testing in hospitalized foals with sepsis.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Thermophilic Campylobacter Species in Humans and Animals in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review.

Thermophilic Campylobacter species are clinically important aetiologies of gastroenteritis in humans throughout the world. The colonization of different animal reservoirs by Campylobacter poses an important risk for humans through shedding of the pathogen in livestock waste and contamination of water sources, environment, and food. A review of published articles was conducted to obtain information on the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles of thermophilic Campylobacter species in humans and animals in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar, Research4life-HINARI Health, and Researchgate.net, were searched using the following search terms “thermophilic Campylobacter,” “Campylobacter jejuni,” “Campylobacter coli,” “diarrhea/diarrhoea,” “antimicrobial resistance,” “antibiotic resistance,” “humans,” “animals,” “Sub-Saharan Africa,” and “a specific country name.” Initially, a total of 614 articles were identified, and the lists of references were screened in which 22 more articles were identified. After screening, 33 articles on humans and 34 on animals and animal products were included in this review. In humans, Nigeria reported the highest prevalence (62.7%), followed by Malawi (21%) and South Africa (20.3%). For Campylobacter infections in under-five children, Kenya reported 16.4%, followed by Rwanda (15.5%) and Ethiopia (14.5%). The country-level mean prevalence in all ages and under-five children was 18.6% and 9.4%, respectively. The prevalence ranged from 1.7%–62.7% in humans and 1.2%–80% in animals. The most reported species were C. jejuni and C. coli. The AMR to commonly used antimicrobials ranged from 0–100% in both humans and animals. Poultry consumption and drinking surface water were the main risk factors for campylobacteriosis. The present review provides evidence of thermophilic Campylobacter occurrence in humans and animals and high levels of AMR in SSA, emphasizing the need for strengthening both national and regional multisectoral antimicrobial resistance standard surveillance protocols to curb both the campylobacteriosis burden and increase of antimicrobial resistance in the region.

Effect of the antimicrobial stewardship protocol on the results of treatment of ICU patients with respiratory infections in a multidisciplinary hospital. Article

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation in real practice of multidisciplinary hospital ICU a local Protocol for the treatment of respiratory infections. Materials and methods. The retrospective interventional study with historical control was performed in a regional clinical hospital with 940 beds. The Protocol was based on the results of local bacteriological data and included indications for start therapy, algorithm for selecting and canceling the antibiotic treatment. We included in analysis data from all patients with pneumonia and purulent tracheobronchitis who were treated in ICU for previous andnext year after the implementation of the Protocol (pre- and intervention period). In accordance with the diagnostic criteria, a group of 146 patients was formed out of 1090 patients who were treated in ICU in preintervention period and to compare with 174 patients group in the interventional period out of 1465 ICU patients. Results. The implementation of the Protocol helped to reduce the average duration of the AMT course from 13.7 to 10.4 days, p &lt; 0.01, the frequency of recurrence of pulmonary infection (22.6 % and 12.6 %, p = 0.028), the duration of artificial ventilation (p &lt; 0.01) and treatment in ICU (for 3 days, p = 0.025). Overall mortality in the groups decreased insignificantly (p = 0.06). Conclusion. Protocol for respiratory infections treatment is an effective tool for control of antimicrobial therapy. The implementation of the Protocol helps physician to timely and reasonably prescribe those antibiotics to the patient that will ensure an early start of effective therapy, and then also reasonably change the scheme or stop therapy. As a result, treatment results are improved, the probability of progression or recurrence of infection is reduced, the need of ventilatory support is reduced, as well as the duration of respiratory support and stay of patients in the ICU.