Prophylaxis Protocol Research Articles

Infections following rejection therapies in kidney and liver transplant recipients.

Infections are known complications of solid-organ transplant. Treatment for rejection may increase risk of infection. We aimed to study frequency of infection and identify the risk factors for infections in solid organ transplant (SOT) (liver and kidney) recipients treated for rejection. This is a retrospective chart review of all liver and kidney transplant recipients treated for rejection at our institution from 2014 to 2020. We collected information on episodes of acute rejection in the first year of transplant and infections within 6 months following rejection treatment. We identified 257 transplant patients treated for rejection. One hundred twelve (43.6%) developed infections, with a total of 226 infections. Urinary tracts infections were the most common, 72 (31.9%), followed by cytomegalovirus viremia in 37 (16.4%), bacteremia in 24 (10.6%), and BK virus in 14 (6.2%). Female sex (p = .047), elevated neutrophil count at rejection (p = .002), and increased number of rejection episodes (p = .022) were predictors of infection in kidney and simultaneous liver-kidney recipients. No specific type of induction or rejection therapy was identified as a risk factor for infection, likely due to the prophylaxis protocols at our institution. Infection post rejection treatment was associated with higher graft loss (p = .021) and mortality (p = .031) in kidney transplant recipients. Infections are common complications after treatment of SOT rejection. Female gender, higher neutrophil at time of rejection, and increased numbers of rejection episodes were predictors of infections after rejection in simultaneous liver-kidney and kidney transplant patients. Infections were predictors of graft loss at 6 months and mortality at any point in follow-up in kidney transplant patients.

Bacterial Decolonization to Prevent Acute Radiation Dermatitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

<h3>Purpose/Objective(s)</h3> Radiation dermatitis (RD) secondary to radiation therapy (RT) to treat cancer reduces quality of life (QoL) and can lead to treatment interruption. The exact etiology of RD is unknown, and bacteria play a role in other inflammatory dermatoses. As our group recently showed nasal colonization with <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (SA) prior to RT was an independent predictor of grade ≥2 RD, we conducted a randomized controlled trial evaluating efficacy of bacterial decolonization (BD) to prevent RD and improve QoL. <h3>Materials/Methods</h3> This is a randomized phase II trial comparing BD to standard of care (SC) for adult patients with breast cancer or head and neck cancer to receive fractionated (≥ 15 fractions) RT. Patients were randomized 1:1 to the BD intervention of intranasal mupirocin ointment twice daily and chlorhexidine body wash once daily for 5 consecutive days before RT start and repeated for 5 days every other week during RT or the SC arm of emollient use as needed. The primary endpoint was development of grade ≥2 RD using Criteria for Adverse Events v4.03, and the planned sample size was 80 patients. Evaluation of a preliminary cohort showed wide variability of disease in grade 2 RD, so grade 2 RD was further differentiated for more refined statistical analysis: "moderate to brisk erythema" defined as grade 2 and "patchy moist desquamation" defined as grade 2 with moist desquamation (2-MD). The secondary endpoint was patient-reported QoL assessed via the SKINDEX-16 (SD-16) questionnaire before and after RT. Bacterial culture swabs of the nares and skin at RT beginning, middle, and end were obtained for both groups. <h3>Results</h3> 80 patients were randomized 1:1 to each arm (40 BD, 40 SC) June 2019-August 2021. 78 breast and 2 head and neck cancer patients were enrolled instead of the projected 40 of each cancer type. 76 patients were included for analysis (38 BD, 38 SC). Clinical and demographic characteristics were well balanced between arms. We demonstrated prevention of RD grades 2-MD or higher in the BD arm compared to the SC arm (0/38, 0% vs 9/38, 23.68%; P=0.002). Additionally, BD resulted in a significantly lower median RD grade compared to SC (1.19±0.7 vs 1.58±0.75, P=0.019). Finally, a linear regression model showed a significant association between BD and decreased RD grade (estimate=-0.431, 95% CI: -0.7516, -0.1054; p=0.010), even when adjusting for other RD risk factors. Most patients reported no difficulty with BD and only one patient discontinued due to itch. There was no difference in QoL outcomes between arms. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Our results support the use of a bacterial decolonization regimen for preventing moist desquamation in patients receiving RT for breast or head and neck cancer. Our study included mainly breast cancer patients; thus, BD efficacy needs to be tested in other solid tumors receiving RT. This is the first study demonstrating efficacy of bacterial decolonization to reduce RD for cancer patients. Given the safety and availability of this regimen, we suggest adding BD to RD prophylaxis protocols.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Normal-Saline Pulsed Lavage for Infection Prophylaxis in Total Joint Arthroplasty.

BackgroundProsthetic joint infection (PJI) is a well-described complication after total joint arthroplasty which imposes a substantial burden of morbidity and mortality on the individual, as well as cost to the health-care system. This study used a break-even analysis to investigate the cost-effectiveness of pulsed saline lavage (PSL) for PJI prophylaxis after a primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA).MethodsAn established model was used to calculate the minimum cost-effective absolute risk reduction of PSL for infection prophylaxis after a total joint arthroplasty. Baseline infection rates of TKA and THA and the cost of a revision surgery for PJI were derived from the literature while the cost of PSL implementation was obtained from institutional data.ResultsPSL is cost-effective at an initial infection rate of 1.10%, revision costs of $32,132 for TKA PJI, and a protocol cost of $38.28 if it reduces infection rates by 0.12% or prevents infection in 1 out of 839 patients. PSL is cost-effective at an initial infection rate of 1.63% and a revision cost of $39,713 for THA PJI if it reduces infection rates by 0.10% or prevents infection in 1 out of 1037 patients. The absolute risk reduction needed for economic viability did not change with varying baseline infection rates and did not exceed 0.38% for infection treatment costs as low as $10,000 and remained less than 0.47% even if PSL cost was as high as $150.ConclusionsThe use of PSL is a cost-effective protocol for PJI prophylaxis after TKAs and THAs.

Investigating the Association Between a Risk-Directed Prophylaxis Protocol and Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: Validation in a Low-Income Setting.

The efficacy of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) prevention protocols in low-income countries is not well known. Different surgical procedures, available medications, and co-occurring diseases imply that existing protocols may need validation in these settings. We assessed the association of a risk-directed PONV prevention protocol on the incidence of PONV and short-term surgical outcomes in a teaching hospital in Rwanda. We compared the incidence of PONV during the first 48 hours postoperatively before (April 1, 2019-June 30, 2019; preintervention) and immediately after (July 1, 2019-September 30, 2019; postintervention) implementing an Apfel score-based PONV prevention strategy in 116 adult patients undergoing elective open abdominal surgery at Kigali University Teaching Hospital in Rwanda. Secondary outcomes included time to first oral intake, hospital length of stay, and rate of wound dehiscence. Interrupted time series analyses were performed to assess the associated temporal slopes of the outcome before and immediately after implementation of the risk-directed PONV prevention protocol. Compared to just before the intervention, there was no change in the odds of PONV at the beginning of the postintervention period (odds ratio [OR], 0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05-1.01). There was a decreasing trend in the odds of nausea (OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.36-0.97) per month. However, there was no difference in the incidence of nausea immediately after implementation of the protocol (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.25-3.72) or in the slope between preintervention and postintervention periods (OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.60-3.65). In contrast, there was no change in the odds of vomiting during the preintervention period (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.61-1.67) per month. The odds of vomiting decreased at the beginning of the postintervention period compared to just before (OR, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.02-0.47; P = .004). Finally, there was a significant decrease in the average time to first oral intake (estimated 14 hours less; 95% CI, -25 to -3) when the protocol was first implemented, after adjusting for confounders; however, there was no difference in the slope of the average time to first oral intake between the 2 periods ( P = .44). A risk-directed PONV prophylaxis protocol was associated with reduced vomiting and time to first oral intake after implementation. There was no substantial difference in the slopes of vomiting incidence and time to first oral intake before and after implementation.

Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis Use by Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons in Canada for the Pediatric Orthopedic Surgical Population.

Introduction A novel pediatric venous thromboembolism (VTE) screening tool was implemented in 2016 at the Izaak Walton Killam (IWK) Health Centre, which safely reduced the use of thromboprophylaxis by 47.9% with no increase in VTE in the pediatric orthopedic surgical population (POSP). There is presently no data on the current practices or protocols for VTE prophylaxis for POSP in Canada. The present survey was designed to assess current practices regarding VTE prophylaxis for POSP in Canada. Methods After research ethics board (REB) approval, a 22-question survey was administered electronically to all Canadian Pediatric Orthopedic Group (CPOG) members. The survey contained questions on respondent demographics and background, current VTE prophylaxis practices and experiences including indications for prophylaxis, the existence of VTE protocols, and interest in utilizing VTE protocols. Descriptive statistical analyses and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were completed on the survey responses. Results Of the 100 CPOG members, 49 (49%) responded. Most respondents (51%, n=25/49) practice in Central Canada, 39% (n=19/49) practice in Western Canadian provinces, and a smaller portion practice in Atlantic Canada (10%, n=5/49). Of the respondents,43% (n=21/49) indicated that they use pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis in their practice, and 93% (n=27/29) stated that specific risk factors are indications of initiating pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis. Additionally, 57% (n=16/28) did not have a defined protocol for VTE prophylaxis, and 18% (n=5/28) were uncertain if they do. Of the respondents, 85% (n=22/26) were open to utilizing a VTE prophylaxis screening tool, and 12% (n=3/26) were uncertain if they would be. Conclusion This study has demonstrated that a uniform protocol for VTE prophylaxis does not exist in most Canadian centers, despite its need. There is nationwide interest in adopting a perioperative VTE prophylaxis screening tool to optimize pharmacologic thromboprophylaxis use in POSP. The goal of future research is the national implementation and standardization of such a screening tool through collaboration in a multicenter study.

S1277 The Selection of Donors in Living Donors of Liver Transplantation Based on Results of Thrombophilia Screening Tests and Prophylactic Strategy for Venous Thromboembolic Events (VTE)

Introduction: Vascular events after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) are one of the most feared complications that usually lead to graft and donor loss. The main aim of this study was to determine the frequency of hereditary thrombophilia in the Pakistani population and share our centers’ safety and venous thromboembolic events (VTE) prophylaxis protocols in the borderline and high-risk groups in live liver donors. Methods: This prospective, observational study included thrombophilia testing, which was done on 567 living donor candidates between July 2018 and April 2021. Donors were divided into the normal, border-line, and high-risk groups according to the Caprini scoring system. Usual prophylaxis with enoxaparin along with elastic stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) was given postoperatively to donors in the borderline and high-risk groups. The safety endpoints were VTE occurrence, bleeding complications, or mortality. Results: Among 567 donors, 21 (3.7%) donors were deficient in protein C, 14(2.5%) were deficient in anti-thrombin-III and 45(7.9%) were having Leiden factor-V mutation. 31/416 (7.45%) were deficient in factor-II. IgM & IgG Anti-phospholipids antibodies were positive in 2/567(0.4%) and 2/567(0.4%) respectively. Donor operation was performed on 44 candidates in the borderline group and 7 in the high-risk group. Complications after surgery were comparable between the 2 groups (p >0.05). One donor in the normal donor group developed pulmonary embolism, but none of the donors in either borderline or high-risk group developed VTE. (Table) Conclusion: Early hepatic artery thrombosis (eHAT), deep venous thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism are one of the most common vascular events after liver transplantation.The majority of LDLT centers exclude donors from high-risk groups (according to the Caprini scoring system) and are used to give low molecular weight heparin in borderline donor groups. But we are the only LDLT center where not only did we perform right lobe hepatectomy on high-risk donor group on thrombophilia screening tests, but we also gave usual prophylaxis with enoxaparin (rather than low molecular weight heparin) along with elastic stockings, and intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) postoperatively to donors in the borderline and high-risk groups (Fifty-one donors ) to decrease the risk of VTE. Table 1. - Comparison of demographics, surgical features, and postoperative complications of LLDs in donor groups Variables Normal Group (n=516) Borderline Group (n=44) High-Risk Group (n=7) P-value Mean age (Years) 23.43 ± 5.53 23.91± 5.25 26.86 ± 6.54 0.17 Mean BMI (Kg/m2) 21.40 ± 7.99 20.5 ± 2.71 21.53 ± 3.29 0.69 GenderMaleFemale 290(56.2%)226(43.7%) 24(54.5%)20(45.4%) 4(57.1%)3(42.8%) 0.97 Marital statusUnmarriedMarried 351(68.1%)165 (31.9%) 25(56.9%)19 (43.1%) 5(71.4%)2(28.5%) 0.06 Donor's relation to recipientsSonBrotherNephewDaughterSisterFatherSwapOthersType of Graft Modified right lobe graftModified extended right lobe graftLeft lobe graftLeft lateral segment graftGRWRMean warm ischemia time (minutes)Mean operation time (hours)Mean blood loss (ml)Blood transfusions (no of patients/ %) 63 (12.2%)99 (19.1%)25 (4.8%)35 (6.7%)32 (6.2%)88 (17.1%)10 (1.9%)157(30.4%)437 (84.6%)62 (12.0%)4 (0.7%)11 (2.1%)6(1.1%)1.26 ± 0.6310.99 ± 6.09407.94 ± 64.86516 6 (13.6%)5 (11.3%)5(11.3%)5 (11.3%)5 (11.3%)3 (6.8%)011 (25.0%)36 (81.8%)8 (18.1%)7 (15.9%)001.4 ± 0.6810.68 ± 4.08412.27 ± 89.1144 1(14.2%)2(28.5%)1(14.2%)00003(42.8%)6(85.7%)1(14.2%)001.2 ± 0.6313.86 ± 7.26422.86 ± 62.377 0.008NSNSNS0.76 Personal History of Thrombosis 0 0 0 _ Total number of complications 62 (12.0%) 15 (34.1%) 2(28.5%) 0.43 Grade 1 & 2 Wound infections Wound hematoma UTI Fever Paralytic ileus 20 (3.8%)2 (0.3%)4 (0.7%)3 (0.5%)2 (0.3%) 3 (6.8%)1 (2.2%)2 (4.5%)2 (4.5%)1 (2.2%) 2(28.5%)0000 0.12 Grade 3A Bile leakage Bile duct stricture Post-op bleeding Pleural effusion/Aspiration ERCP & Stenting 6 (1.1%)3(0.5%)3 (0.5%)9 (1.7%)3 (0.5%) 1 (2.2%)01 (2.2%)1 (2.2%)1 (2.2%) 00000 0.15 Grade 3B Re-open 6(1.1%) 1 (2.2%) 0 0.45 Grade 4A Need ICU care/ ventilatorGrade 4B Multi-organ failure 1 (0.1%)0 1 (2.2%)0 00 0.95-- Grade 5 0 0 0 -- Mean ICU stay (Days) 3 ± 1 2.53 ± 1 3 ± 1 0.15 Mean hospital stay (Days) 6 ± 2 5 ± 2 6 ± 2 0.17 Mortality 0 0 0 -- Abbreviations: BMI: body mass index; GRWR= graft to recipient weight ratio; ICU: Intensive care unit; UTI: Urinary tract infection.

STUDYING THE IMPACT OF PULMONARY EMBOLISM IN ADMITTED PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS: A 4-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE COHORT

STUDYING THE IMPACT OF PULMONARY EMBOLISM IN ADMITTED PATIENTS WITH DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS: A 4-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE COHORT

Safety and value of pretransplant antibiotic allergy delabeling in a quaternary transplant center.

Self-reported antibiotic allergies, also known as antibiotic allergy labels, are common and may lead to worse patient outcomes. Within immunocompromized patients, antibiotic allergy labels can lead to inappropriate use of antimicrobials and may limit options for prophylactic and therapeutic options in the posttransplant period. While antibiotic allergy delabeling is considered an important aspect of antibiotic stewardship protocols, evidence and awareness of its application in transplant recipients is limited. We describe our experience with an antibiotic allergy delabeling intervention in the pretransplant evaluation period and its impact on posttransplant antimicrobial utilization. This was a retrospective analysis of patients with an antibiotic allergy label who underwent evaluation for solid organ or stem cell transplantation between 2015 and 2020. Patients included in this analysis were those who completed pretransplant antibiotic allergy delabeling through our Drug Allergy Clinic and were retained in care for 6 months after transplant. Twenty-six of 27 patients underwent pretransplant antibiotic allergy delabeling and safely received the delabeled antibiotic posttransplant. There were no reported side effects to the delabeled antibiotic within 6 months posttransplant. Specific examination of sulfonamide (sulfa)-antibiotic delabeling showed cost savings of $254 to $2910 per patient in the posttransplant period compared to the use of alternative antibiotics for prophylaxis protocol. Antibiotic allergy delabeling prior to transplant is safe, is of high value, and should be considered in the pretransplant evaluation period.More resources are needed for the development of delabeling guidelines and support for broad implementation of pretransplant antibiotic allergy delabeling programs.

Nurse practitioner model of care for the initiation of pre-exposure prophylaxis: A case series study.

The purpose of this study was to create and implement a nurse practitioner model of care in the initiation of a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) protocol with African American men who have sex with men (MSM). A case series design was used to implement the protocol for a nurse practitioner PrEP-based model of care. The participatory, evidence-based, patient-focus process (PEPPA) framework and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Doctoral Essentials for Advanced Practice were aligned to guide the development, implementation, and evaluation of this advanced practice role in an urban medical clinic. Seven African American HIV-negative MSM who received treatment under the nurse practitioner PrEP-based model of care had increased PrEP knowledge and medication adherence and did not contract a sexually transmitted infection. New models of care can be created to meet the Getting to Zero HIV initiative of reducing rates of HIV infections with MSM.

Immunization with Genetically Modified Trypanosomes Provides Protection against Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies.

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies are incurable neurodegenerative diseases, associated with the conversion of the physiological prion protein to its disease-associated counterpart. Even though immunization against transmissible spongiform encephalopathies has shown great potential, immune tolerance effects impede the use of active immunization protocols for successful prophylaxis. In this study, we evaluate the use of trypanosomes as biological platforms for the presentation of a prion antigenic peptide to the host immune system. Using the engineered trypanosomes in an immunization protocol without the use of adjuvants led to the development of a humoral immune response against the prion protein in wild type mice, without the appearance of adverse reactions. The immune reaction elicited with this protocol displayed in vitro therapeutic potential and was further evaluated in a bioassay where immunized mice were partially protected in a representative murine model of prion diseases. Further studies are underway to better characterize the immune reaction and optimize the immunization protocol.

Use of Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Hospitalized Patients: Knowledge and Practice Among Physicians in Nepal.

IntroductionDespite the importance of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in hospitalized patients, audits have shown inadequate use of VTE prophylaxis methods around the world. We aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding VTE prophylaxis among clinicians in Nepal.MethodologyA cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted using an online survey platform.Results199 (60.7%) of the respondents were aware of the risk factors-based risk stratification approach to VTE prophylaxis in hospitalized patients. Only 154 (47%) of the physicians reported institute-based protocols for VTE prophylaxis.ConclusionWe found a significant lack of awareness on risk factors-based stratification strategy for VTE prevention practices among Nepalese physicians. We recommend educational efforts for Nepalese physicians on the overall impact of VTE on mortality and morbidity of hospitalized patients. Our study highlights the needs for adoption of institution-based protocols for VTE prophylaxis and prevention.

Impact of Plastic Surgery and an Enhanced Prophylaxis Protocol on Cervical Spine Surgery Infection.

Background: Reduction of surgical site infections (SSIs) is important in improving cervical spine surgery outcomes. Plastic surgery involvement and an enhanced modified prophylaxis protocol may reduce infection rates. Methods: A total of 962 cervical spine operations were conducted by a single surgeon (TFC). An enhanced modified prophylaxis protocol and plastic surgery were used in some operations. Differences in infection rates, surgical approach, previous operations, prophylaxis use, and plastic surgery involvement were compared using Fisher's exact tests and multivariate linear regression. Results: Four patients (0.42%) experienced SSIs. All 4 infections involved the standard protocol, posterior approach, and did not involve plastic surgery. The infection rate was lower in the enhanced protocol group when compared to the standard protocol (β -0.78, 95% CI -1.23 to -0.33, P = .0008). The enhanced protocol group had an increased percentage of operations with plastic surgery (β 0.19, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.28, P < .0001). The infection rate among the plastics group was 0.00% compared to 0.60% for the non-plastics group (P = .32). The plastics group had a lower rate of anterior approach when compared to the non-plastics group (β -0.20, 95% CI -0.24 to -0.15, P = .049). Among the posterior approach group, procedures with plastic surgery had an infection rate of 0.00% compared to 2.53% without plastic surgery (P = .13). Conclusion: The enhanced protocol was associated with a lower SSI rate and increased plastic surgery involvement. Posterior approaches were associated with increased infection rates and the likelihood of utilizing plastic surgery. Both the enhanced protocol and plastic surgery may decrease infection.

Study protocol of REpeat versus SIngle ShoT Antibiotic prophylaxis in major Abdominal Surgery (RESISTAAS I): a prospective observational study of antibiotic prophylaxis practice for patients undergoing major abdominal surgery

IntroductionSurgical site infections (SSIs) are among the most common complications after abdominal surgery and develop in approximately 20% of patients. These patients suffer a 12% increase in mortality, underlying the...

Venous thromboembolism and adverse outcomes in highest thromboembolism risk patients compared with those at lower risk

A risk-based institutional protocol for inpatient heparin-based venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in a general obstetrical population previously demonstrated a greater than 2-fold increase in wound hematomas with no change in the frequency of thromboembolism. We sought to compare the rates of thromboembolism and bleeding outcomes in patients at the highest risk for thromboembolism (eg, those with a history of thromboembolism or thrombophilia who require anticoagulation prophylaxis or therapy throughout pregnancy) than low-risk patients. We performed a retrospective cohort study of all deliveries >20 weeks at a single center from 2013-2018. Patients were categorized as high-risk (received outpatient heparin-based prophylaxis or treatment) or low-risk (no outpatient anticoagulation). The primary outcome was newly diagnosed postpartum thromboembolism; the main secondary outcome was wound/perineal hematoma. The outcomes were compared between the high- and low-risk cohorts. Adjusted odds ratios (with 95% confidence intervals) were calculated with the low-risk group as reference. Of 24,303 total deliveries, 395 (1.7%) were high-risk and 23,905 (98.3%) were low-risk. Among the low-risk patients, 8.6% received anticoagulation prophylaxis in accordance with our risk-based inpatient thromboembolism prophylaxis protocol. High-risk patients were more likely to be older and have a higher body mass index, earlier delivery gestational age, medical comorbidities, and pregnancy complications, eg, preeclampsia. Despite outpatient antepartum anticoagulation, high-risk patients had an 11-fold increased risk of thromboembolism (adjusted odds ratio, 11.1 [4.7-26.2]) than low-risk patients. High-risk patients also had significantly more wound/perineal hematomas (adjusted odds ratio, 4.8 [2.7-8.4]), overall wound complications (adjusted odds ratio, 3.0 [2.0-4.4]), blood transfusions, intensive care unit admissions, maternal deaths, and longer maternal lengths of stay. Patients at the highest risk of obstetrical thromboembolism had an 11-fold increased risk of thromboembolism with a more moderate increase (∼5-fold) in postpartum wound and bleeding complications than low-risk patients. This more favorable risk or benefit profile supports current anticoagulation recommendations in high-risk patients.

Oral care and protocols in cancer patients

With the passage of time and new emerging techniques significant progression is seen in cancer treatment modalities. However, oral care of the cancer patients is of utmost importance since chemotherapy notably impacts the oral health of cancer patient’s majorly causing mucositis and various other infections. Oral problems are more common in cancer patients, and 80% of patients suffer from them. These oral problems have a profound effect on a patient's ability to eat, drink, and speak and are often accompanied by pain, which can lead to increased demand for systemic drugs, longer hospital stays, and an increased risk of life-threatening system infections. The aim of this research is to review the available information about the oral care and protocols in cancer patients. The dentist's role in the integrated care of oncology patient includes ongoing involvement from diagnosis to end. Various protocols are advised in literature which include the use of dental floss and mouthwash, prior to chemotherapy in oral hygiene procedures, requirement of comprehensive clinical and radiographic examinations when assessing oral health, antibiotic prophylaxis, extractions and certain other protocols. Basic oral care which refers to actions that should be included in a general patient care throughout cancer treatment to maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of local inflammation and infection, is essential for cancer patients. However, future clinical and comprehensive research into oral care protocols among cancer patients could further strengthen the literature and highlight the role of the dentist in this regard.

Knowledge and risk perception towards human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B infections among medical students

Background and objectives: Nosocomial human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are common occupational hazards transmitted through infected needle-stick injuries. Younger medical students are at a higher risk of exposure mainly because of their inexperience and ignorance. Both these infections are preventable if standard precautions and protocols for post-exposure prophylaxis are followed. The present study assesses the knowledge, and risk perception among medical students and interns towards HIV and HBV infections, to guide instructors in planning appropriate training programmes. Methods: Following approval of the institutional ethics committee of University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India, (UCMS) undergraduate medical students and interns were invited to respond to an indigenously designed questionnaire regarding HIV and HBV infections. Participation was voluntary and anonymous. The students were assessed vertically. Results: There was a gradual increase in the awareness regarding HIV and HBV infection with each passing academic year. The percentage of total questions answered correctly was highest (91.1%) in internship and lowest (71.5%) in the first semester. Awareness regarding HIV was greater as compared to HBV infection in all the groups. Interns had maximum awareness of post exposure prophylaxis available for both HIV and HBV infections. Ninth semester students scored the highest on pre-exposure prophylaxis for HBV infection. Overall, the interns were the most aware. Conclusion: Students’ knowledge on HIV and HBV infections improves as these areas are covered in greater detail during exposure to clinical disciplines. An early clinical exposure module for first year medical students in the Competency Based Medical Education curriculum may provide an opportunity to improve awareness, to reduce infection and subsequent morbidity. The students have greater awareness of HIV than HBV, though the risk of transmission is higher for the latter. Thus, shortcomings in imparting knowledge about hepatitis B must be identified and rectified.

Real‐world effectiveness of antifungal prophylaxis with posaconazole as the primary agent in patients with haematological malignancies

Patients undergoing induction/reinduction chemotherapy for haematologic malignancies (HM) are at risk for invasive fungal infections (IFIs). In 2015, Duke University Hospital (DUH) implemented a new standardised fungal prophylaxis protocol for adult patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute lymphocytic leukaemia, acute myelocytic leukaemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. This study assessed the impact of protocol implementation on (1) use of antifungal prophylaxis, throughout the at-risk period and (2) patient outcomes such as IFI and mortality. Retrospective, observational study of adult HM patients admitted to DUH for induction/reinduction chemotherapy pre- (7/1/2013-12/31/2014) and post- (1/1/2015-10/31/2016) implementation of standardised antifungal prophylaxis protocol (which recommended posaconazole as the first-line agent). Patients were followed for up to 100 days after initiation of induction chemotherapy to evaluate use of antifungal prophylaxis and patient outcomes. 218 patients with haematologic malignancies were included (90 pre, 128 post). Use of antifungal prophylaxis increased from 81.1% (pre) to 97.7% (post) (p < .0001). Overall, 71% received posaconazole as initial antifungal prophylaxis (64.4% pre, 75.7% post). Approximately one-fourth of patients (25.6%, pre vs 26.6%, post) developed an IFI (proven/probable or possible using modified EORTC definitions) (p=.868); 100-day mortality remained stable (18.9% pre vs 18.8% post, respectively, p=.979). Lack of antifungal prophylaxis and older age (≥60 years) were associated with higher risk of IFI. Implementation of a standardised protocol with posaconazole as the primary agent was associated with increased use of antifungal prophylaxis among patients undergoing induction/reinduction chemotherapy for haematologic malignancies in our hospital. Lack of antifungal prophylaxis was an independent predictor of IFIs, underscoring the importance of prophylaxis in this at-risk population.

Knowledge and Behavior toward Venous Thromboembolism Event Prophylaxis and Treatment Protocols among Medical Interns in Riyadh.

Objective This study was aimed at evaluating the knowledge and behavior toward venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis among medical interns. Methods This is a questionnaire-based cross-sectional observational cohort study of medical interns that used a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised of items that assessed behavior, knowledge, and self-assessment of VTE risk factors, diagnosis, and prophylaxis. The study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 2020 till September 2021. Results The respondents were 246 medical interns. The overall rate of correct responses to behavior items was 41.82%. The overall rate of correct responses to knowledge items was 47.35%. A total of 61.8% responded negatively to the use of VTE risk assessment guidelines (p < 0.0001). For the self-assessment of knowledge of VTE, more than 70% believed they did not have appropriate knowledge, were not prepared to establish the risk of VTE, and were not prepared to provide adequate prophylaxis for VTE (p < 0.0001). A high proportion of medical interns (83.3%, p < 0.0001) believed they needed further training on this topic. Conclusion Participants in this study showed poor knowledge and negative behavior regarding the assessment of risk factors, diagnosis, and prophylaxis of VTE. The majority of participants reported they needed training on this topic. These findings underscore the need for educational programs during undergraduate training and orientation of medical interns for VTE risk assessment, diagnosis, and prophylaxis at the beginning of their internship.

Individualised prophylaxis based on personalised target trough FVIII level optimised clinical outcomes in paediatric patients with severe haemophilia A.

As standard care of severe haemophilia A (SHA), prophylaxis should be individualised. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of this new-proposed individualised prophylaxis protocol. Boys with SHA were enrolled and followed a PK-guided, trough-level escalating protocol of prophylaxis after a six-month observational period. In the next 2 years, clinical assessments including joint bleeds, ultrasound (US) scores and Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) in both sides of ankles, knees and elbows were conducted every 6 months as a scoring system, which determined whether the trough level's escalation. Adjustment of dosing regimen was based on WAPPS-Hemo. Fifty-eight SHA boys were finally analysed. Their age and bodyweight were 5.3(2.8,6.9) years and 21.5(16,25) kg. During the study, 47 escalations were conducted. At study exit, the patient number and proportion of different trough level groups were:<1IU/dl, 17.2% (10/58); 1-3IU/dl, 53.5% (31/58); 3-5IU/dl, 15.5% (9/58);>5IU/dl, 13.8% (8/58). Significantly reduced annualised bleeding rate [4(0,8) to 0(0,2), p<.0001] and annualised joint bleeding rate [2(0,4) to 0(0,.25), p<.0001] was observed at study exit as well as the continuous trend of increased zero bleeding proportion (ZBP) (27.6%-69.0%) and zero joint bleeding proportion (46.5%-81.3%). Besides, 85% (6/7) of the target joints vanished. Statistical improvements of US scores (p=.04) and HJHS (p=.02) were also reported at study exit. Our results showed the effectiveness of our protocol based on individualised target trough level and emphasise the importance of personalised prophylaxis.

What Are the Drivers of Readmission for Serious Venous Thromboembolic Events after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty? An Analysis of 862,915 Patients.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a relatively common complication among patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This complication occurs in a spectrum of severity ranging from an incidental finding to serious readmission-requiring events. To date, the risk factors of serious VTE that require readmission have not been characterized. This study examines the patient and hospital characteristics associated with readmission for serious VTE after TKA. The National Readmission Database (NRD) from the Agency of Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) was queried for patients who underwent primary TKA from January 2016-December 2018. The study population consisted of patients who were readmitted within 90 days following primary TKA with a primary diagnosis of VTE. Multivariable regression models were constructed to evaluate patient characteristics (age, sex, insurance, elective nature of procedure, hospital characteristics, discharge status, income, and comorbidities) associated with higher risk of developing readmission-requiring VTE. Readmission rates for VTE exhibited a higher incidence in patients older than 61 (compared with 40 and under), males (OR:1.08, 95%CI [1.03-1.14]), patients with nonelective procedures (OR:20.21, 95% CI [19.16-21.32]), patients at large hospitals(OR:1.17, 95% CI [1.09-1.25]), patients at private hospitals (OR:1.19, 95% CI [1.09-1.29]), and patients with non-home discharge statuses. Comorbidities of paralysis (OR:1.52, 95% CI [1.19-1.94]), neurological disorders (OR:1.12, 95% CI [1.02-1.23]), metastatic cancer (OR:1.48, 95% CI [1.01-2.17]), obesity (OR:1.11, 95% CI [1.06-1.17]), fluid and electrolyte imbalance (OR:1.28, 95% CI [1.18-1.38]), blood loss anemia (OR:1.29, 95% CI [1.02-1.64]), and iron deficiency anemia (OR:1.24, 95 % CI [1.15-1.33]) increased risk of VTE. Certain comorbidities requiring chronic anticoagulation were associated with lower risk of VTE. Insurance status and patient income did not exhibit any correlation with VTE incidence. Patient characteristics of male sex, age > 61, and baseline comorbidities (paralysis, neurological disorders, metastatic cancer, obesity, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and blood loss/iron deficiency anemia) were at an increased risk of developing serious VTE. Patients without continued supervision at their discharge environment were at higher risk of developing serious VTE. Extra prophylaxis and special protocols may be warranted in these patients to prevent VTE complications.