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An epidemiologic study of postoperative staphylococcal wound infections in patients having vascular procedures
Abstract:
An epidemic of postoperative wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus in 15 patients during a four-month period in 1974 is reported. An unusual staphylococcal antibiogram served as a marker for the multiresistant strain of hospital-acquired infections and raised suspicion of a common source for the infections. The spread of infection began shortly after isolation was discontinued in the index case. An epidemiologic investigation showed that 14 patients were on the same ward, and one patient from another ward had opportunity for contact with the index case. The epidemic was controlled by prompt isolation of all infected patients, adherence to strict isolation techniques, aseptic technique for dressing changes and by treatment of nasal carriers among ward personnel with appropriate antibiotics.
Insights
A 1974 outbreak of postoperative wound infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus was investigated. Prompt isolation and strict hygiene measures successfully controlled the hospital-acquired infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
- Microbiology
Background:
- A 1974 epidemic involved 15 patients with postoperative wound infections.
- The infections were caused by a multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus strain, indicated by an unusual antibiogram.
- Hospital-acquired infections raised suspicion of a common source.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and analyze an epidemic of Staphylococcus aureus wound infections.
- To identify the source and transmission dynamics of the hospital-acquired infections.
- To determine effective control measures for the staphylococcal outbreak.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiologic investigation to trace the source and spread of infections.
- Identification of a multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus strain using antibiogram.
- Implementation of isolation protocols, aseptic techniques, and carrier treatment.
Main Results:
- The epidemic involved 15 patients, with 14 on the same ward.
- Infection spread was linked to the discontinuation of isolation for the index case.
- Control measures, including isolation and hygiene, successfully halted the epidemic.
Conclusions:
- Prompt isolation and strict adherence to aseptic techniques are crucial for controlling hospital-acquired Staphylococcus aureus infections.
- Identifying and treating nasal carriers among healthcare personnel is essential.
- An unusual antibiogram can serve as a marker for multiresistant hospital-acquired infections.