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Evaluation of appropriate transmission-based precautions for non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses
Cassandra L Falk1, Lisa E Dumkow1, Abigail C Geyer1
1Department of Pharmacy, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.
Antimicrobial Stewardship & Healthcare Epidemiology : ASHE
|November 29, 2023
Abstract:
Appropriateness of transmission-based precautions after positive result for a non-SARS-CoV-2 virus was evaluated. Most patients (77.2%) lacked appropriate precautions within 3 hours of virus detection; 36.9% remained without appropriate precautions during their stay. With recent cessation of universal masking, adherence to infection control best practices is needed to optimize safety.
Insights
Most patients did not receive timely transmission-based precautions after testing positive for non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses. Improved adherence to infection control is crucial for patient safety, especially after universal masking ended.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Healthcare Epidemiology
Background:
- Transmission-based precautions are critical for preventing the spread of infectious agents in healthcare settings.
- Non-SARS-CoV-2 viral infections pose a significant risk for nosocomial transmission.
- Recent changes in public health guidelines, such as the cessation of universal masking, necessitate a re-evaluation of infection control practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the appropriateness and timeliness of transmission-based precautions following a positive test for a non-SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- To identify the proportion of patients who received adequate infection control measures post-diagnosis.
- To highlight the need for enhanced adherence to infection control protocols in the current healthcare environment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients with positive results for non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses.
- Assessment of the implementation of transmission-based precautions within 3 hours of laboratory confirmation.
- Evaluation of the duration of appropriate precaution adherence throughout the patient's hospital stay.
Main Results:
- A significant majority of patients (77.2%) did not have appropriate transmission-based precautions initiated within 3 hours of a positive non-SARS-CoV-2 viral test.
- A substantial proportion of patients (36.9%) continued to lack appropriate precautions for the entirety of their hospital stay.
- These findings indicate a widespread gap in the timely and consistent application of essential infection control measures.
Conclusions:
- Current adherence to transmission-based precautions for non-SARS-CoV-2 viral infections is suboptimal.
- The cessation of universal masking underscores the urgent need for strict adherence to established infection control best practices.
- Optimizing patient safety requires immediate improvements in the consistent and timely implementation of infection control protocols.
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