Controlling infection in a district general hospital

Abstract

SYNOPSISThe way in which hospital-acquired infection has been brought under control over a three-year period in a district general hospital is described.The main success has been achieved in reducing sepsis caused by Staph. aureus, especially methicillin-resistant strains, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.These reductions were achieved in spite of inadequate ward isolation and operating theatre facilities, and before there was any marked change in patterns of prescribing antibiotics.Our experiences indicate the significant improvements that can be made in controlling nosocomial sepsis even without structural or other major alterations in a hospital, providing that the problem is fully appreciated and the infection control team are concerned enough to act vigorously in influencing their clinical colleagues.

Pseudomonas aeruginosaand the general hospital: a six-year survey

“…Members of the Enterobacteriaceae have predominated (Dans, Barrett, Casey & Finland, 1970; Adler, Burke & Finland, 1971) but Pseudomonas aeruginosa has accounted for significant numbers of isolations in certain instances (Harris, Orwin, Colquhoun & Schroeder, 1969;Noone & Shafi, 1973). To some extent, the frequency with which this species is isolated reflects the type of hospital and the opportunities available within it for cross-infection.…”

Mopping up hospital infection

“…The same authors published a further study two years later describing the reduction in hospital-acquired infections in the same district general hospital. 124 In the attempt to overcome the lack of isolation facilities, separate wards were closed to new admissions, emptied and cleaned. Concurrent activities also included a disinfectant policy and a more rational use of chemical disinfectants.…”