Adverse events associated with patient isolation: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Healthcare-Associated Infections
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Patient isolation is a standard infection control measure to prevent multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) transmission in healthcare.
• The risk-benefit balance of patient isolation remains a subject of ongoing debate.
• Assessing potential adverse events associated with isolation is crucial for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze recent studies on patient isolation.
• To identify and evaluate physical and psychological adverse events linked to patient isolation.
• To provide an updated risk-benefit assessment of isolation protocols.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched PubMed for studies published between May 2009 and January 2020.
• Included studies focusing on adverse events, patient isolation/cohorting, and MDROs.

Main Results:

• Nineteen studies were included after screening over 15,000 articles.
• Meta-analysis of seven observational studies revealed no significant adverse events related to clinical care or patient experience due to isolation.
• Included studies comprised qualitative and observational designs.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence suggests patient isolation does not lead to adverse clinical or experiential outcomes.
• Further high-quality research with control groups and standardized criteria is needed to confirm these findings.
• Evidence-based guidelines for patient isolation require robust data to ensure optimal patient safety and care.