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Tuberculosis control in New York City hospitals
R L Stricof1, G T DiFerdinando, W M Osten
1Bureau of Tuberculosis Control, New York State Department of Health, ESP, Albany 12237-0669, USA.
American Journal of Infection Control
|June 25, 1998
Summary
Tuberculosis control measures in New York City hospitals significantly improved between 1992 and 1994, with better isolation timing, treatment, and environmental controls for tuberculosis (TB). Continued community and healthcare collaboration is essential for TB elimination.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Control
- Hospital Management
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern, necessitating effective control measures in healthcare settings.
- Implementation of TB control strategies in New York City hospitals was assessed to identify areas for improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the implementation of tuberculosis (TB) control measures in New York City hospitals in 1992.
- To identify trends and improvements in TB control during the subsequent two years (1993-1994).
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of medical and laboratory records for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear-positive TB patients in 22 acute care facilities.
- Data collection focused on risk factors, diagnostic turnaround times, isolation, treatment, reporting, and environmental controls.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in AFB isolation timing, administration of anti-TB drugs, and room isolation practices.
- Negative airflow in isolation rooms increased from 51% to 80%, and respirator availability rose from 28% to 76%.
- Referral for directly observed therapy increased substantially from 15% to 53%.
Conclusions:
- TB control efforts in New York City hospitals showed dramatic improvement from 1992 to 1994.
- Sustained control requires ongoing coordinated efforts among healthcare facilities, providers, and the community.