We use a metric created by the CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network called the standardized infection rate. This system lets us compare the actual number of infections that happened in a hospital to the number that are expected to happen, based on various demographic factors. If the standard infection rate is less than one, it's a good sign- it means the hospital had fewer infections than were estimated. If the number is more than one, it means the hospital had more infections than expected.
As a general code, if SIR < 1: the hospital is exceeding expectations since they have a lower infection rate than expected.
Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs) are caused by a type of bacteria found in the gut. In hospitals, CDI is often contracted through contact with contaminated surfaces or hands of healthcare workers. CDIs have a mortality rate of 1 to 2.5%, but this rate increases to 24% for patients who are 65 years of age or older.
This hospital’s standardized infection rate is
Top hospitals are implementing a range of clinical procedures to prevent Clostridium difficile infections, including improved hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, antimicrobial stewardship, and patient isolation. Studies have shown that these strategies have led to significant reductions in the incidence of C. difficile infections, with some hospitals reporting reductions of up to 80%. However, the impact of these strategies may vary depending on the specific hospital setting and the prevalence of C. difficile infections in the community. for patients who are 65 years of age or older.
Member Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are primarily caused by the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract through the use of urinary catheters. These infections are associated with prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and mortality. CAUTIs can lead to serious complications such as bloodstream infections, sepsis, and even death. The risk of developing a CAUTI is higher in elderly patients and those with underlying health conditions.
This hospital’s standardized infection rate is
Preventive procedures include using sterile techniques during catheter insertion, removing catheters as soon as possible, and using alternatives such as condom catheters or intermittent catheterization when appropriate. Other strategies include educating healthcare providers and patients on proper catheter care and monitoring catheter use and infection rates. These strategies have shown significant improvement, with some hospitals reporting reductions in CAUTI rates by up to 70%.
Discuss all options with your practitioner before accepting a catheter. Unfortunately, there are still cases where a catheter will be required. This is why it’s important to know the quality of the hospital before undergoing an elective procedure. Alarmingly, many hospitals don’t have a handwashing policy in place for clinicians before interacting with a patient. This problem is so significant that the Johns Hopkins Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety boosts hospital rankings if they implement such a procedure.
Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) occur when bacteria or other pathogens enter the bloodstream through a central line, a catheter placed in a large vein. CLABSIs are a significant healthcare-associated infection with potentially severe consequences. They can lead to complications such as sepsis, organ dysfunction, and even death. Prompt recognition, proper insertion techniques, regular maintenance, and adherence to strict infection control protocols are vital in preventing CLABSIs.
This hospital’s standardized infection rate is
The most important prevention strategy is to get a central line removed as quickly as possible. Top medical units hold daily huddles where they review which patients had central lines using a central dashboard. If, for example, a nurse hasn’t documented that a patient received a required antibacterial wipe bath by shift change, the software can assign another nurse to complete the task.
Patients can reduce their risk of central line-associated bloodstream infections by practicing good hygiene and keeping the area clean and dry. Further strategies include using antiseptic solutions during dressing changes and using sterile techniques during line access. A study found that implementing these strategies led to a 44% reduction in CLABSI rates.
Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as "staph," is a common bacterium that can live on the skin or in the nose without causing any problems. However, if the bacteria enters the body, such as through a cut or during a medical procedure, it can cause an infection.
This hospital’s standardized infection rate is
Preventive procedures include using sterile techniques during catheter insertion, removing catheters as soon as possible, and using alternatives such as condom catheters or intermittent catheterization when appropriate.
Healthcare-acquired MRSA infections typically affect those with weakened immune systems and are usually more serious, often occurring in a surgical wound or around a catheter. Discuss all options with your practitioner before accepting a catheter. MRSA infections can be difficult to treat because of their resistance to common antibiotics, but there are still antibiotics that can be effective.
