Screening for carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in previous carriers readmitted to hospital: evaluation of a change in screening policy. Issue 2 (October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tucker, A.; George, R.; Welfare, W.; Cleary, P.; Cawthorne, J.; Dodgson, A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hospital infection. Volume 103:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 156
• Page End: 159
• Publication Date: 2019-10
• Subjects: Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae -- Carbapenemase-producing -- Screening -- Hospitals -- Evaluation; Cross infection -- Periodicals; Cross infection -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- prevention & control -- Periodicals; Infection Control -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.44
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2019.04.012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6701

Abstract

Summary: Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) are a growing problem in UK hospitals. Preventing transmission requires early detection. This study evaluates a new screening policy for patients with a history of blaKPC-associated CPE (KPC-CPE) in a higher incidence hospital. Previous policy assumed 'once positive always positive'. New policy uses rapid screening and risk assessment. Results show that most (76.5%) patients with a history of KPC-CPE do not have detectable KPC-CPE on readmission or during their subsequent hospital stay but that repeat screening after an initial negative result is required. The new policy takes a risk-based approach while prioritizing isolation facilities in a higher incidence trust.