Abstract

BACKGROUND
There is a lack of empiric evidence regarding the optimal approach to controlling the transmission of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). In this context, we expect that infection control practices for these organisms vary widely between hospitals.
METHODS
A survey examining infection control practices for ESBL-E and CRE was distributed to 6 academic and 9 community hospitals in Toronto, Canada.
RESULTS
All hospitals responded to the survey. Among 15 hospitals in 1 geographic area, 8 different approaches to the management of ESBL-E were utilized. There was wide variation in the use infection control practices including admission screening (53% and 53%), contact precautions (53% and 100%), and isolation (60% and 100%) for ESBL-E and CRE, respectively. Of hospitals performing admission screening, 75% used risk factor-based screening for ESBL-E and CRE.
CONCLUSION
Even within a single geographic area, there is wide variation in infection control strategies to contain or control ESBL-E and CRE. These results are concerning given evidence that a coordinated approach may be required to prevent or limit the emergence of CRE.

Links

Publisher Full Text

Authors

Lowe C, Katz K, McGeer A, Muller MP, Toronto ESBL Working Group

Institution

Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Source

American journal of infection control 40:9 2012 Nov pg 836-9

MeSH

Canada
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Enterobacteriaceae
Enterobacteriaceae Infections
Health Services Research
Hospitals, Community
Hospitals, University
Humans
Infection Control

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article

Language

eng

PubMed ID

22361360