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Characteristics of Bed Bug Infested Patients in the Emergency Department

Johnathan M Sheele1, Cameron J Crandall2, Brandon F Chang2

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., B-517, Cleveland, OH 44139, USA.

Emergency Medicine International
|June 19, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Bed bug infestations are common in emergency departments, with many patients not reporting their condition to providers. This lack of reporting and isolation precautions poses a risk to others in the ED.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Disease Epidemiology
  • Medical Entomology

Background:

  • The common bed bug (Cimex lectularius) is a hematophagous ectoparasite experiencing a global resurgence.
  • Bed bug infestations pose a significant public health concern, particularly in shared environments like healthcare facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence of bed bug experiences among emergency department (ED) patients.
  • To evaluate patient reporting of infestations and healthcare provider implementation of isolation precautions.
  • To identify characteristics of ED patients with bed bug infestations.

Main Methods:

  • A survey was conducted among 706 active emergency department patients regarding their experiences with bed bugs.
  • Data collected included current infestations, previous exposure, knowledge of others with infestations, reporting to providers, and isolation precaution status.
  • Demographic and clinical data were compared between patients with and without bed bug infestations.

Main Results:

  • 2% of ED patients reported a current bed bug infestation, while 37% reported previous feeding.
  • Only 18% of infested patients reported their condition to healthcare providers, and 21% were placed in isolation precautions.
  • Patients with bed bugs were more likely to be older and arrive by ambulance.

Conclusions:

  • Bed bug infestations are prevalent among emergency department patients, with many unaware of or not reporting their condition.
  • Inadequate reporting and isolation precautions for infested patients pose a risk of transmission to other patients and healthcare providers.
  • Public health strategies are needed to address bed bug infestations in healthcare settings and prevent further spread.

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