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Influenza had a major impact on the nations hospitals this season, filling up intensive care units and leading to staff shortages. Currently, there is no standard that requires immunization of health care workers, but the Joint Commission requires hospitals to be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. A vaccine against the H5N1 virus could be in clinical trials by this summer.
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The use of serum procalcitonin helps to differentiate bacterial from viral lower respiratory infections and may reduce the use of unnecessary antibiotics.
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The common and increasing practice of opioid treatment for chronic pain is reviewed. Randomized trials support this therapy, however the risk benefit decision is complicated by new evidence of hazards making this practice more difficult.
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Long-term treatment with aspirin is associated with a progressive diminution in platelet sensitivity to the drug.
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In February, the FDA approved a new monoclonal antibody for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.
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A third case of vancomycin-resistant Staphylo-coccus aureus (VRSA) has occurred in the United States, opening up the distinct possibility that the much-feared superbug will continue to emerge. Though little was known about the case as this issue went to press, Hospital Infection Control was able to confirm that it occurred in a patient in New York.
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Underscoring the importance of its new infection control standards for 2005, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations has decided to roll out the new requirements on a consultative basis for hospitals being surveyed from July to December of this year.
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The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology recently posted information on its web site to assist infection control professionals (ICPs) in doing a sentinel event analysis. The information includes the highlights in this article.
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