bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liberate our Library: doing decolonisation work at Goldsmiths Library
Authors: Clarke Marilyn
Published: November 2020

Library work now has a role to play when it comes to decolonisation. This article outlines what Goldsmiths Library, University of London is doing, through theLiberate our Libraryinitiative, to diversify and decolonise its collections and practices against the backdrop of worldwide movements for education and social justice led by both students and academics to challenge the dominance of the ‘Westernised university’.2

Examples of how we are doing this work are explained using critical librarianship as our guide, whilst recognising that we are still developing expertise in this evolving field of practice. This decolonisation work also uses critical race theory (CRT) as a means to dismantle racial inequality and its impact on higher education.

Here, I would like to acknowledge the excellent and inspirational content ofALJ, Critical Librarianship: Special Issue (v.44, no.2) and I see this article as an ongoing companion piece.

Goldsmiths Library's liberation work endeavours to empower its users with critical thinking and study skills whilst conducting their research using hierarchical systems and resources which in themselves are in the process of being decolonised.

Decolonising a library collection and a profession must of course always begin or at least happen in tandem with the self, through a process that Kenyan author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o describes as ‘decolonising the mind.’3
Towards an activist research: Is Wikipedia the problem or the solution?
Authors: Duncan Alexandra
Published: November 2020

Is the internet a tool for democracy or the manifestation of the global digital divide? Using the colonization of the internet as a starting point, this article outlines some current issues with knowledge equity, asking if democratic open access products like Wikipedia are the solution or another manifestation of the systemic bias of society. Whilst acknowledging librarianship has its own colonial legacies to address, the suggestion is made that critical librarianship can provide a response in the form of library–based edit-a-thons and Wikipedia workshops. These show how the power of Wikipedia can be used responsibly not just for enabling critical information literacy, but as an instrument for activism. In considering librarian interventions done so far at the University of the Arts, London, the article outlines future practical possibilities for decolonization, as well as looking more widely at how to democratize information in open access products and the Western publishing that sits behind them.
Understanding the Nature and Context of Domestic Homicide Committed by Female Victims of Domestic Violence in Iran: Examining Current and Alternative Criminal Justice Responses
Authors: Amini Mahbube
Published: November 2020

Domestic homicide is the most serious type of violence in a marital relationship, which is punishable by the death penalty as retaliation (Qisas) according to the Penal Code of Iran. The present paper analyzes why a woman commits this crime (the killing of her husband), examining the killer’s status in a marital relationship. Data show that the killers had been victims of domestic violence for 10–25 years. In other words, domestic homicide has a direct relationship with the killer being victimized by domestic violence, including physical (assault and battery), mental (insult and obscenity), sexual and sometimes financial violence that may result from addiction. The most important reason for domestic homicide is the failure to provide legal and social protection for women. This incites hatred for the husband, which arises from repeated victimization in a coercive relationship with the husband. These women cannot end this coercive relationship because of insufficient or unavailable legal, social or family protection. Moreover, the process of divorce for a woman in Iran is quite complex. This article also examines the potential defense of mental capacity and self-defense and its place in the Iranian penal code. Based on this research, this article argues for the need for the legislature to review the death penalty for this kind of crime and to consider other possible responses to such murders.
Resistance Trends in Pathogens Causing Healthcare-Associated Infections in Multiple Hospitals in Saudi Arabia, 2007–2016
Authors: Alshamrani Majid , Ramadan Aiman , Alsaedi Asim , Nasser wafa Al , Gammal Ayman El , Aljohani Sameera , Almunif Sara , Arabi Yassen , Alqahtani Saad , Baffoe-Bonnie Henry , Alghoribi Majed , Alothman Adel , Yaseen Muhammad , AlMohrij Saad
Published: November 2020

Background: Studying temporal changes in resistant pathogens causing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is crucial in improving local antimicrobial and infection control practices. We analyzed 10-year trends in resistance in pathogens causing HAIs in a tertiary-care setting in Saudi Arabia and we compared such trends with those of the US NHSN. Methods: We performed a pooled analysis of surveillance data that were prospectively collected between 2007 and 2016 in 4 hospitals of the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs. Definitions and methodology of HAIs and antimicrobial resistance were based on NHSN methods. Consecutive NHSN reports were used for comparisons. Results: In total, 1,544 pathogens causing 1,531 HAI events were included. Gram-negative pathogens (GNPs) were responsible for 63% of HAIs, with a significant increasing trend in Klebsiella spp and a decreasing trend in Acinetobacter spp. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (27.0%) was consistently less frequent than NHSN reports. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (20.3%) more than doubled during the study, closing the gap with the NHSN. Carbapenem resistance was highest for Acinetobacter (68.3%) and Pseudomonas (36.8%). Increasing trends of carbapenem resistance were highest for Pseudomonas and Enterobacteriaceae, closing the initial gaps with the NHSN. With the exception of Klebsiella and Enterobacter, multidrug-resistant (MDR) GNPs generally decreased, mainly due to the decreasing resistance to cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and aminoglycosides. Conclusions:The current trends probably reflect multiple local interventions to reduce HAIs and MDR as well as the heavy use of carbapenems and vancomycin. Our main challenge remains to further enhance the newly launched antimicrobial stewardship practices.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Site Visits Reveal Common Gaps in Instrument Reprocessing and Sterilization at Philadelphia Dental Clinics
Authors: Peritz Tiina , Coffin Susan
Published: November 2020

Background: Most dental clinics lack resources and oversight related to infection prevention and control (IPC) practices. Few dental clinics undergo inspections by regulatory authorities unless the state licensing authorities receive a specific complaint. Many states, including Pennsylvania, do not have continuing IPC education requirements for dental providers. In 2018–2019, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) received and responded to multiple complaints and concerns related to IPC practices at dental clinics. Complaints were investigated in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of State (PADOS). Methods: Unannounced site visits were conducted at 7 Philadelphia dental clinics from December 2018 through September 2019 as part of the public health responses. Clinic evaluations and observations by PDPH certified infection preventionists focused on (1) IPC policies and procedures, (2) staff IPC training, (3) hand hygiene, (4) personal protective equipment, (5) instrument reprocessing and sterilization, (6) injection safety, and (7) environmental cleaning and disinfection. The CDC and the Organization of Safety, Antisepsis and Prevention (OSAP) checklists were adapted for this purpose. Results: Most dental practices we visited were small, unaffiliated, owner-operated clinics. The most common gaps we identified were associated with instrument reprocessing and sterilization practices, including inadequate separation between clean and dirty work areas, limited space and availability of sinks, inappropriate use of glutaraldehyde products for instrument cleaning (n = 3, 43%), extended reuse of cleaning brushes (n = 5, 71%), sterilization or storage of sterilized instruments without appropriate packaging (n = 2, 29%), lack of spore testing or reviewing results (n = 2, 29%), and lack of documentation of sterilizer run cycles and maintenance (n = 7, 100%). Additionally, most clinics did not have well-developed IPC policies and procedures, and staff IPC trainings were neither documented nor conducted annually. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer was often not available at the point of use. Conclusions: In Philadelphia, dental clinics often lacked IPC support and oversight. Lapses across multiple key IPC domains were common. These findings suggest that public health may have a role in providing IPC support to unaffiliated dental clinics. Licensing entities can also serve a role in improving IPC practices by more widely mandating continuing IPC education as part of the dental license renewal process.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Standardized Antimicrobial Administration Ratio (SAAR) Clinical Outcomes Assessment in a Large Community Healthcare System
Authors: Burgess Hayley , Cooper Mandelin , Goldin Laurel , Sands Kenneth
Published: November 2020

Background: Research on the association between the standardized antimicrobial administration ratio (SAAR) and clinical outcomes is lacking. Objective: We compared SAAR and patient outcomes in 97 acute-care facilities affiliated with a large healthcare system. Methods: Facilities were classified using the broad-spectrum hospital-onset (BSHO) SAAR for medical, surgical, and medical-surgical wards as low, moderate, or high antimicrobial use: low use SAAR, <0.8; moderate use SAAR, 0.95–1.05; and high-use SAAR, >1.2. Data were included from patients aged ≥18 years who were discharged between the first quarter of 2018 and the second quarter of 2019, had nonmissing matching criteria, BMI between 10 and 90, and at least 1 BSHO medication administered in a medical, surgical, or medical-surgical ward. Patients were matched for gender, age group, BMI category, year and quarter of discharge, ICU stay, and diagnosis-related group (DRG). Eligible drugs included all routes for cefepime, ceftazidime, doripenem, imipenem/cilastatin, meropenem, and piperacillin/tazobactam and IV only for amikacin, aztreonam, gentamicin, and tobramycin. Outcomes were evaluated in a pairwise manner using t tests or χ2 tests. Results: Each of the 3 study groups consisted of 6,327 patients, 51% of whom were men; average age, 63 years; 70% of whom were obese or overweight, and 19% of whom had an ICU stay. The most common DRG code was infectious and parasitic diseases (57%) followed by digestive system (9%), respiratory system (7%), and kidney and urinary tract (6%). High antibiotic use was associated with longer length of stay and a higher estimated cost per visit. Low antibiotic use was associated with higher rate of mortality and a lower rate of readmissions compared to moderate use. The low-usage group did not exhibit a statistically significant difference in mortality, readmissions, or rate of C. difficile compared to the high-usage group. Conclusions: The optimal antibiotic utilization group varied among outcomes. Further evaluation of outcomes is needed for the SAAR to understand the ranges and the relationship between the measure and clinical outcomes.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Staphylococcus spp Resistance to Chlorhexidine: Is There Any Impact Related to the Routine Use for Hand Hygiene?
Authors: Boszczowski Icaro , Minami William Kazumassa , Baraldi Marcia , Marchi Ana Paula , Santos nia Alves dos , schmitt o Paulo cristiane , Maciel Amanda Luiz Pires , Zani Maria Eduarda Rufino , Souza cia Muniz , Souza Nicole Soares de , Costa Silvia Figueiredo
Published: November 2020

Background: Although guidelines recommend the use of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) for hand hygiene (HH), the impact of its routine use on antimicrobial resistance is not clear. Objective: To analyze the impact on the CHG susceptibility among isolates obtained from hands of HCW during its routine use for HH. Methods: We conducted a crossover study at 4 medical-surgical wards of a tertiary-care hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. In 2 units (intervention group), we established routine use of CHG for HH. For the other 2 units (control group), regular soap was provided. The availability of alcohol formulation for HH was not changed during the study. Every 4 months we swapped the units, ie, those using CHG changed for regular soap and vice versa. At baseline, we cultured the hands of HCWs. Only nursing staff hands were investigated. For hand culturing, HCWs placed their hands inside a sterile bag containing a solution of phosphate-buffered saline, Tween 80, and sodium thiosulfate. After the solution incubated overnight, it was inoculated onto brain-heart infusion. Next, it was plated on McConkey and Mannitol agar. MALDI-TOF was used for identification. Agar dilution was performed for Staphylococcus spp. We selected all Staphylococcus spp with MIC ≥ 8 and performed inhibition of efflux pump test. For isolates that showed a decrease of 2 dilutions, we searched the gene qacA/B by polymerase chain reaction. Results: We obtained 262 samples from HCW hands yielding 428 isolates. The most frequent genera were Staphylococcus spp (58%), Acinetobacter spp (8%), Enterobacter spp (8%), Stenotrophomonas spp (5%), Klebsiella spp (4%), Pseudomonas spp (3%), and others (14%). Staphylococcus spp were less frequent in the intervention compared to control group (43% vs 61%; OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29–0.69; P = .005). Among all Staphylococcus spp, the proportion of chlorhexidine resistance (RCHG; MIC ≥ 8) was 12%. All resistant isolates recovered susceptibility after inoculation with pump-efflux inhibitor. For pump-inhibited isolates, 53% had the gene qacA/B amplified by PCR. We did not investigate RCHG among gram-negative isolates. There was a nonsignificant increase in Staphylococcus spp RCHG in the intervention group (4% to 6%; P = .90). Healthcare-acquired infection rates did not change significantly during the intervention. The consumption of CHG increased from 7.3 to 13.9 mL per patient day. Conclusions: We did not detect a significant difference in RCHG during the routine use of CHG for HH, although we observed increasing resistance. Further investigation is needed to clarify other reasons for increasing MIC to CHG.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Strategy for Increasing Alcohol Gel Consumption Based on Realistic Simulation, Opinion of Healthcare Workers, Structure Adequacy and Change in Alcohol Product
Authors: Abraao Ligia , Anjos Sandra Nascimento dos , Tonheiro Chayenne Mika Matsumoto Pinto , Lima la Souza , Braz Mariana Sarkis , Pires Sarita , Cais Daiane , Miranda Bianca , Cocentino sar Batista , Paulo o , Paulo o
Published: November 2020

Background: Healthcare-related infections (HAIs) imply higher morbidity and mortality, length of hospitalization, and costs to institutions and the health system. An important practice for HAI control is hand hygiene. Due to the need for greater adherence to the practice of hand hygiene, as well as understanding about behavior and motivations related to actions associated with infection control, we conducted this study based on inquiry and intervention. Objectives: To describe the increase in adherence to hand hygiene through a multimodal strategy based on realistic simulation, inquiry, change of alcohol and training on actions related to infection control. Methods: In May 2018, a survey was administered to healthcare workers (HCW) regarding structure, process, and behavior related to hand hygiene. Training was also performed, which simulated a bed marked with GloGerm (later revealed with the application of black light), performing tasks by professionals, and completing a test. In November 2018, the structure of hand hygiene and points at which the alcoholic product was offered were redefined, and the alcohol-based product and its dispensers were exchanged. In December 2018, an educational campaign on hand hygiene and change disclosure was held. In February 2019, a new survey was applied to employees. Alcohol consumption was measured per patient day in the periods and compared with the historical average. Results: In the first application of the survey, 263 HCW reported dissatisfaction with hand hygiene structure (46% preferred water and soap). Most reported that training and structure would improve adherence. The training took place for 540 HCWs from many different professional positions. Alcohol gel consumption had a sustained increase from an average of 37 mL per patient day in the first semester to 49 mL per patient day in the second semester. After the product change and the new hand hygiene campaign, a second relevant and sustained increase has took place: the first 4-month average in 2019 was 67 mL per patient day. In the second survey, conducted with 187 HCWs, there was an increase in preference for alcohol-based product from a wall dispenser (from 38% to 62%).

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Substance Use Diagnoses Among Persons with Community-Onset Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bloodstream Infections
Authors: McCarthy Natalie , Baggs James , Jernigan John , See Isaac , Hatfield Kelly , Reddy Sujan , Gokhale Runa , Wolford Hannah , Fiore Anthony
Published: November 2020

Background: In recent years, the historic declines in the incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bloodstream infections (BSIs) in the United States have slowed. We examined trends in the incidence of community-onset (CO) MRSA BSIs among hospitalized persons with and without substance-use diagnoses. Methods: Using data from >200 US hospitals reporting to the Premier Healthcare Database (PHD) during 2012–2017, we conducted a retrospective study among hospitalized persons aged ≥18 years. MRSA BSIs with substance use were defined as hospitalizations having both a blood culture positive for MRSA and at least 1 International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) or ICD-10-CM diagnostic code for substance use including opioids, cocaine, amphetamines, or other substances (excluding cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine). MRSA BSIs were considered community onset when a positive blood culture was collected within 3 days of admission. We assessed annual trends and described characteristics of CO MRSA BSI hospitalizations, stratified by substance use. Results: Of 20,049 MRSA BSIs from 2012 to 2017, 17,634 (88%) were CO. Overall, MRSA BSI incidence decreased 7%, from 178.5 to 166.2 per 100,000 hospitalizations during the study period; However, CO MRSA BSI rates remained stable (152.7 to 149.9 per 100,000 hospitalizations). Among CO MRSA BSIs, 1,838 (10%) were BSIs with substance-use diagnoses; the incidence of CO MRSA BSIs with substance use increased 236% (from 8.2 to 27.6 per 100,000 hospitalizations) and represented a greater proportion of the CO MRSA rate over the study period (Fig. 1). The incidence of CO MRSA BSIs without substance use decreased 15% (from 144.5 to 122.4 per 100,000 hospitalizations). Patients with CO MRSA BSIs with substance use were younger (median, 40 vs 65 years), more likely to be female (50% vs 40%), white (79% vs 69%), and to leave against medical advice (15% vs 1%). Among patients not leaving against medical advice, CO BSI patients with substance-use diagnoses had longer lengths of stay (median, 11 vs 9 days), lower in-hospital mortality (9% vs 14%), and higher hospitalization costs (median, $22,912 vs $17,468) compared to patients without substance-use diagnoses. Conclusions: Although the overall CO MRSA BSI rate remained unchanged from 2012 to 2017, infections with substance use diagnoses increased >3-fold, and infections without substance use diagnoses decreased. These data suggest that the emergence of MRSA associated with substance-use diagnoses threatens potential progress in reducing the incidence of CO MRSA infections. Additional strategies may be needed to prevent MRSA BSI in patients with substance-use diagnoses, and to maintain national progress in the reduction of MRSA infections overall.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Successful Control of a Norovirus Outbreak in a Chilean Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Benadof Dona , Garcia Vanessa , Cifuentes Paulina , Gaggero Aldo
Published: November 2020

Background: Noroviruses are nonenveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the Caliciviridae family; they cause high-profile outbreaks in healthcare settings, due to their contagiousness, prolonged viral shedding, and ability to survive in the environment. Methods: Description of a norovirus outbreak in a pediatric ICU with multibed rooms. We report the epidemiology, molecular diagnosis, and control. Results: In August and September 2019, an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis affected 13 patients and 26 healthcare workers at an intensive care unit of Roberto Del Río Children’s Hospital, which consists of 22 beds in a multibed-room format. Patients manifested self-limited nondysenteric diarrhea; other symptoms were vomiting (54%) and fever (23%). Healthcare workers reported diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, malaise, and abdominal cramps. The mean age of the patients was 1 year old, all diaper users. The average days of diarrhea in patients was 4 days (2–6 days). There were 87 exposed patients, with an attack rate of 14.9% and 107 exposed staff, with an attack rate of 24.3%. Rotavirus and bacterial etiology were ruled out, and norovirus was subsequently diagnosed in 10 of 13 patients using qRT-PCR; 80% (8 of 10) corresponded with GII norovirus and 20% with a GI (2 of 10). Control measures included enforcement of standard precautions, strict adherence to contact precautions (use of gloves and gowns), hand hygiene before and after patients contact, and mask use if exposure to vomitus. Healthy staff were assigned for patients care. Environmental disinfection twice daily with 1.000 ppm sodium hypochlorite solution was encouraged and supervised with focus on cleaning high-touch surfaces, such as bathrooms, sinks, tables, floors and patient-care items. Active and prospective surveillance were conducted to search for new cases. Infection control practices were coupled with education to staff, patients, and visitors. The outbreak was controlled on September 18, 2019, after 23 days and several interventions, with complete recovery in all cases. Conclusions: We concluded that timely detection of a norovirus outbreak in a healthcare facility is imperative for effective infection control, especially in a multibed-room setting, because of the extended viral shedding in children and the transmission route that included aerosolized viral particles in vomitus. Molecular methods offer a rapid and definitive way to establish etiology, but these tests may not be accessible. Direct contact with infected children and contaminated surfaces and patient-care items were relevant risk factors in this outbreak (which involved both patients and healthcare workers) and contributed with its length.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Surgical Site Infection Trend Analysis Following Colon Surgeries, National Healthcare Safety Network, 2009–2018
Authors: Li Qunna , Soe Minn , Nkwata Allan , Russo Victoria , Dudeck Margaret , Edwards Jonathan
Published: November 2020

Background: Hospitals have submitted surveillance data for surgical site infections (SSIs) following colon surgeries (COLO) to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) since 2005. COLO SSI data submissions to NHSN have increased substantially beginning in 2012 as result of a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) mandatory reporting requirement that began that year. A trend analysis of COLO SSIs, using data submitted to NHSN, has not been previously reported. To estimate the national trend of COLO SSI rates, we analyzed data reported from acute-care hospitals during 2009–2018. Methods: We analyzed inpatient adult COLO procedures with primary closure and resulting deep incisional primary and organ-space SSIs detected during the same hospitalization or rehospitalization in the same hospital. SSIs reported as infection present at time of surgery (PATOS) were included in the analysis. A protocol change that reprioritized COLO above small bowel surgery (SB) in the multiprocedural abdominal operations selection list for SSI attribution beginning in 2013 was a potential interruption to COLO SSI outcome. An interrupted time series with mixed-effects logistic regression was used to estimate the annual change in the log odds of COLO SSI. The estimates were adjusted for the following variables: hospital bed size, gender, emergency, trauma, general anesthesia, scope, ASA score, wound classification, medical school affiliation type, procedure duration and age. We also assessed the slope and level change of log odds before and after 2013. Results: The number of hospitals and procedures increased and then stabilized after 2012 (Table 1). The annual crude SSI rates ranged from 2.40% to 3.10%. There was no statistically significant slope change in 2013 and after. Compared to 2009–2012, the log odds of COLO SSI increased in 2013–2018 (OR, 1.1975; P < .0001). Based on this model, we estimate a 0.58% annual decrease in the odds of having a COLO SSI during 2009–2012 and 2013–2018 after controlling for the aforementioned variables (Table 2). Conclusions: We observed a substantial increase in the volume of hospitals and procedures reported to the NHSN since 2012 and an increase in odds of having a COLO SSI in 2013–2018 associated with surveillance protocol changes. After adjusting for these changes, we found a slight annual decrease in the overall odds of COLO SSI. Greater prevention efforts are needed for COLO SSI.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Targeted Assessment for Prevention: A Statewide Collaborative
Authors: Hou Cindy , Davila Shannon , Miller Mary , Hiester Ashlee , Hosmer Katherine , Kelley LaKisha
Published: November 2020

Background: Infection preventionists (IPs) are the backbone of the quality and safety matrix of their organizations. Tools to help locate potential gaps can provide unique viewpoints from frontline staff. The CDC provides a Targeted Assessment for Prevention (TAP) strategy that identifies vulnerabilities in the prevention of healthcare-associated infection (HAIs). Methods: A statewide quality improvement organization, partnering with the CDC TAP team, administered TAP facility assessments for catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), central-line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), and Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) to a collaborative of 15 acute-care and 2 long-term acute hospitals. More than 800 respondents filled out surveys based on their individualized perceptions of infection prevention practices. Results: The survey results yielded the following lagging indicators: lack of awareness of nursing and physician champions, need for competency-based training of clinical equipment, and feedback on device utilization. At the hospital system level, one improvement team focused on CDI, uncovered leading and lagging areas in general infrastructure, antibiotic stewardship, early detection and appropriate testing, contact precautions, and environmental cleaning. To culminate the TAP collaborative, the cohort of organizations, supported by interdisciplinary teams, participated in a full-day TAP workshop in which they reviewed detailed analyses of their HAI data and assessment results, shared best practices for infection prevention and planned for specific improvement projects using the plan-do-study-act model. Conclusions: Results of a statewide analysis of HAI prevention data and opportunities at a local level were reviewed. The TAP strategy can be used to target opportunities for improvement, to assess gaps in practice, and to develop and implement interventions for improving outcomes. Healthcare facilities and quality improvement organizations can drive infection prevention actions.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
The Burden of Gastroenteritis Outbreaks in Long-Term Care Settings in Philadelphia, 2009–2018
Authors: Kang Hansol , Coffin Susan , Peritz Tiina
Published: November 2020

Background: Gastroenteritis causes significant morbidity and mortality in long-term care facility (LTCF) residents, a growing population within the United States. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study in LTCFs in Philadelphia County from 2009 to 2018. Outbreak characteristics and interventions were extracted from Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s (PDPH) database, and quality data on all LTCFs was extracted from the CMS Nursing Home Compare database. Results: We identified 121 gastroenteritis outbreaks in 49 facilities. Numbers of affected patients ranged from 2 to 211 patients (median patient attack rate, 17%). Staff were reported ill in 94 outbreaks (median staff attack rate, 5%). Outbreak facilities were associated with higher occupancy rates (91% vs 88%; P = .033) and total bed numbers (176 vs 122; P = .071) when compared to nonoutbreak facilities. Higher rates of staff illness were associated with prolonged outbreaks (13% vs 4%; P < .001) and higher patient illness rates (9% vs 4%; P = .012). Prolonged outbreaks were associated with lower frequency of cohorting for outbreak management (13% vs 41%; P = .046). Conclusions: This study is the largest published analysis of gastroenteritis outbreaks in LTCFs. Facility characteristics and staff disease 20 activity were associated with more severe outbreaks. Heightened surveillance for gastrointestinal symptoms among staff and increased 21 use of cohorting might reduce the risk of prolonged gastroenteritis outbreaks in LTCF.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
The Daily Direct Costs of Isolating Patients Identified With Highly Resistant Microorganisms
Authors: Dijk Manon van , holt t , Severin tte , Polinder Suzanne , Vos M.
Published: November 2020

Background: Isolation precautions are recommended when caring for patients identified with highly resistant microorganisms (HRMOs). However, the direct costs of isolating patients are largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to obtain detailed information on the daily direct costs associated with isolating patients identified with HRMO. Methods: This study was performed from November until December 2017 on a 12-bed surgical ward. This ward contained solely isolation rooms with an anteroom. The daily direct costs of isolation were based on three cost items: (1) additional personal protective equipment (PPE); measured by counting the consumption of empty packaging materials, (2) cleaning and disinfection of the isolation room; based on the costs of an outsourced cleaning company, and (3) additional workload for healthcare workers; based on literature and multiplied by the average gross hourly salary of nurses. A distinction was made between the costs for strict isolation, contact-plus isolation, and contact isolation. Results: During the study period, 26 patients were nursed in isolation because of HRMO carriage, resulting in a total of 304 isolation days (median 7 isolation days; range 1-44). Gloves were consumed the most and hair caps the least. The average daily direct costs of isolation were the least expensive for contact isolation, €28/$31, and the most expensive for strict isolation, €41/$47. Conclusions: By using a novel, easy method to estimate consumption of PPE, we conclude that the daily direct costs of isolating a patient, differs per type of isolation. Insight into the direct costs of isolation is of utmost importance when developing or revising policies.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
The Impact of a Best-Practice Advisory on Inpatient Use of Piperacillin-Tazobactam
Authors: Peterson Katherine , Smith Lindsay , Ahern John , Tompkins Bradley
Published: November 2020

Background: Antibiotic “time outs” have been identified as a way to decrease inappropriate use of antibiotics in hospitals.1 The University of Vermont Medical Center created a best-practice advisory (BPA) to alert clinicians to review piperacillin-tazobactam prescriptions after 72 hours (Fig. 1). Data examining the use of a BPA as a method to prompt clinicians to perform an antibiotic “time out” are limited. Objective: The purpose of our retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the BPA on the rate of piperacillin-tazobactam prescribing as measured by defined daily dose per 1,000 patient days (DDD). Methods: The BPA was integrated into the electronic health record and designed to activate once piperacillin-tazobactam has been prescribed for ≥72 hours. Under approval of the University of Vermont’s Institutional Review Board, administered data for piperacillin-tazobactam and 3 control antibiotics (cefazolin, ceftriaxone, and meropenem) were collected for 1 year prior to and 1 year following the launch of the BPA. Administered data were converted to DDD, and an interrupted time-series analysis was performed to evaluate for changes in antibiotic use. Results: The data included 7,094 patients in the preintervention group and 6,661 patients in the postintervention group. The BPA fired 1,478 times. The prescribing rate of piperacillin-tazobactam 1 year prior to the BPA was 32.34 DDD and decreased every month both before (−1.22 DDD) and after (−0.27 DDD) the BPA initiation, with no significant difference in prescribing trends (P = .10). Meropenem prescribing in the BPA era increased each month compared to the pre-BPA period (1.16 DDD; P = 0.02), whereas cefazolin use (P = .93) and ceftriaxone (P = .09) use did not significantly change. Conclusions: The data show that piperacillin-tazobactam utilization at our institution is decreasing. Considering that this trend started prior to the launch of the BPA and that rate of decline remained unchanged post-BPA, we conclude that the BPA did not further impact our piperacillin-tazobactam consumption. It is possible that other factors influencing prescribing account for the observed decline, including an institution-wide educational campaign regarding the appropriate use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that was initiated in the months prior to the BPA. The reason for the significant rise in meropenem post-BPA is unclear. This may be unrelated to the BPA; however, it requires further investigation.

1. Core elements of hospital antibiotic stewardship programs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. https://www.cdc.gov/antibioticuse/healthcare/implementation/core-elements.html. Updated July 19, 2019. Accessed October 6, 2019.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
The Impact of Changing to an Algorithm-Based Clostridioides difficile Test on the Decision to Treat Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Dbeibo Lana , Williams Joy , Sadowski Josh , Fadel William , Winn Vera , Beeler Cole , Kelley Kristen , Webb Douglas Houston , Kara Areeba
Published: November 2020

Background: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for the diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) detects the presence of the organism; a positive result therefore cannot differentiate between colonization and the pathogenic presence of the bacterium. This may result in overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and risking disruption of microbial flora, which may perpetuate the CDI cycle. Algorithm-based testing offers an advantage over PCR testing as it detects toxin, which allows differentiation between colonization and infection. Although previous studies have demonstrated the clinical utility of this testing algorithm in differentiating infection from colonization, it is unknown whether the test changes CDI treatment decisions. Our facility switched from PCR to an algorithm-based testing method for CDI in June 2018. Objective: In this study, we evaluated whether clinicians’ decisions to treat patients are impacted by a test result that implies colonization (GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ test), and we examined the impact of this decision on patient outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of inpatients with a positive C. diff test between June 2017 and June 2019. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients treated for CDI. We compared this outcome in 3 groups of patients: those with a positive PCR test (June 2017–June 2018), those who had a GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ or a GDH+/Tox+ test result (June 2018–June 2019). Secondary outcomes included toxic megacolon, critical care admission, and mortality in patients with GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ who were treated versus those who were untreated. Results: Of patients with a positive PCR test, 86% were treated with CDI-specific antibiotics, whereas 70.4% with GDH+/Tox+ and 29.25% with GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ result were treated (P < .0001). Mortality was not different between patients with GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ who were treated versus those who were untreated (2.7% vs 3.4%; P = .12), neither was critical care admission within 2 or 7 days of test result (2% vs 1.4%; P = .15) and (4.1% vs 5.4%, P = .39), respectively. There were no cases of toxic megacolon during the study period. Conclusions: The change to an algorithm-based C. difficile testing method had a significant impact on the clinicians’ decisions to treat patients with a positive test, as most patients with a GDH+/Tox−/PCR+ result did not receive treatment. These patients did not suffer more adverse outcomes compared to those who were treated, which has implications for testing practices. It remains to be explored whether clinicians are using clinical criteria to decide whether or not to treat patients with a positive algorithm-based test, as opposed to the more reflexive treatment of patients with a positive PCR test.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
The Impact of Intervention-Related Risk Factors on the Risk of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Is High in a Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ershova Ksenia , Khomenko Oleg , Ershova Olga , Savin Ivan , Kurdumova Natalia , Danilov Gleb , Shifrin Michael
Published: November 2020

Background:
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) represents the highest burden among all healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), with a particularly high rate in patients in neurosurgical ICUs. Numerous VAP risk factors have been identified to provide a basis for preventive measures. However, the impact of individual factors on the risk of VAP is unclear. The goal of this study was to evaluate the dynamics of various VAP risk factors given the continuously declining prevalence of VAP in our neurosurgical ICU. Methods: This prospective cohort unit-based study included neurosurgical patients who stayed in the ICU >48 consecutive hours in 2011 through 2018. The infection prevention and control (IPC) program was implemented in 2010 and underwent changes to adopt best practices over time. We used a 2008 CDC definition for VAP. The dynamics of VAP risk factors was considered a time series and was checked for stationarity using theAugmented Dickey-Fuller test (ADF) test. The data were censored when a risk factor was present during and after VAP episodes. Results: In total, 2,957 ICU patients were included in the study, 476 of whom had VAP. Average annual prevalence of VAP decreased from 15.8 per 100 ICU patients in 2011 to 9.5 per 100 ICU patients in 2018 (Welch t test P value = 7.7e-16). The fitted linear model showed negative slope (Fig. 1). During a study period we observed substantial changes in some risk factors and no changes in others. Namely, we detected a decrease in the use of anxiolytics and antibiotics, decreased days on mechanical ventilation, and a lower rate of intestinal dysfunction, all of which were nonstationary processes with a declining trend (ADF testP > .05) (Fig. 2). However, there were no changes over time in such factors as average age, comorbidity index, level of consciousness, gender, and proportion of patients with brain trauma (Fig. 2). Conclusions: Our evidence-based IPC program was effective in lowering the prevalence of VAP and demonstrated which individual measures contributed to this improvement. By following the dynamics of known VAP risk factors over time, we found that their association with declining VAP prevalence varies significantly. Intervention-related factors (ie, use of antibiotics, anxiolytics and mechanical ventilation, and a rate of intestinal dysfunction) demonstrated significant reduction, and patient-related factors (ie, age, sex, comorbidity, etc) remained unchanged. Thus, according to the discriminative model, the intervention-related factors contributed more to the overall risk of VAP than did patient-related factors, and their reduction was associated with a decrease in VAP prevalence in our neurosurgical ICU.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
To Err is Human, To Forget is Device-related: A Cautionary Note for Endoscopists
Authors: Lesho Emil , Fede Jennifer , Vore Kelly , Bronstein Melissa
Published: November 2020

Background: In the United States, ∼5 million endoscopies are performed annually. Contaminated endoscopes account for more nosocomial infections than any other medical device, but the vast majority of such events go unreported. We found no reports in the literature or the FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database of the incident described below. Methods: During a colonoscopy, the operator noticed resistance while advancing a clipping wire through the channel. A balloon-tipped catheter sheath was then extruded into the colonic lumen. The sheath and endoscope were withdrawn without incident, and the procedure was completed with a different endoscope. According to equipment logs, the last time that type of balloon-tipped catheter was used occurred 20 days prior, resulting in 20 patients having potentially been exposed to an incompletely disinfected device. Interrogation of the endoscope with various inserts revealed that the presence of a retained sheath would allow passage of all types of guide wires, (snips, snares, etc), including the cleaning brush. The only device whose passage would have been prevented by a retained sheath was a vascular clipping device. A review of procedure notes and interviews of involved physicians revealed that such clippings were performed as recently as 2 days prior to the incident, thus reducing the number of potentially exposed to 2, plus the index. The county and state health departments were notified, a MAUDE report was filed, and patients were notified and offered free testing for bloodborne and enteric pathogens. Discussion: The root causes of the exposure included the absence of a closed-loop feedback for removable components (similar to an operating room sponge count), an inexperienced endoscopy technologist, and, in our opinion, a design flaw of the sheath that allows the sheath to enter the channel. Specifically, unlike other sheath brands, this brand lacks a large, irremovable warning flag that precludes channel entry (Fig. 1). Had we not been able to trace the use of each individual endoscope (n = 45) in the clinic and link each to specific patients, procedures, and reprocessing logs, we would have had no way to determine the extent of exposures. This incident, which we present as a cautionary tail to others, highlights (1) a possible equipment design flaw, (2) the importance of closed-loop feedbacks for removable components, (3) the criticality of detailed procedure notes along with granular cleaning and reprocessing logs traceable to every endoscope, and (4) the challenge of communicating risk of disease transmission to patients.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None
Understanding the Short-Term Dynamics of MRSA Between Patients and Their Immediate Environment
Authors: Gibson Kristen , Mody Lona , Sax Hugo , Gontjes Kyle , Cassone Marco , Mang Nora , Wolfensberger Aline
Published: November 2020

Background:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization of patients and contamination of their immediate environmental surfaces is common in the acute care setting, but there is much to be learned about the dynamics of MRSA transmission over a short period of time. Methods: A prospective, observational time-motion qualitative study was conducted at 2 hospitals: 1 in Michigan (hospital 1) and 1 in Zurich, Switzerland (hospital 2)—between November 2018 and July 2019. Hospitalized patients with a MRSA infection or colonization were enrolled. Microbiologic cultures for MRSA were collected from patient nares, axilla, groin and hands and several high-touch surfaces in their room (bed controls, call button, tray table, etc) at the first visit, and patient hands and high-touch surfaces continued to be swabbed every 90 minutes over the course of 5 hours. Patient hands and environment were disinfected after each swabbing. Clinical data were collected from patient’s medical chart. Results: We recruited 10 MRSA colonized or infected patients for the study with 50 hours of observation and obtained 360 patient and environmental swabs. Most were women (7 of 10); the average age was 52.8 years (Table 1). At the first visit, 8 (80%) patients were MRSA-colonized (at 1 or more body sites) and 5 (50%) rooms were MRSA-contaminated (at 1 or more surfaces). Also, 6 patients (60%) had an active MRSA infection and were actively receiving an anti-MRSA agent (eg, Vancomycin). Among those 6 patients receiving an anti-MRSA agent, 4 patients (67%) and 2 rooms (33%) were contaminated at the first visit. Among those 4 patients not receiving an anti-MRSA agent, all 4 patients (100%) and 3 rooms (75%) were contaminated at the baseline visit. Acquisitions (ie, MRSA recovered from a site it was not previously recovered from) occurred on 3 of 7 patient hands (43%) and on 6 occasions in the room (among 5 patients), most commonly at the toilet seat (2 of 6 times). MRSA prevalence on patient and room surfaces for the 5 patients enrolled at hospital 2 are illustrated in Figure 1, which shows colonization of patient and contamination of environment as well as activities performed by the patient in between culturing. Conclusions: We evaluated transmission of MRSA over brief periods of time; our results show that transmission of MRSA depended on patient activity in the room. Furthermore, degree of patient colonization is reflected by environmental contamination and supports the notion of constant transmission of MRSA from patients to environment.

Funding: None

Disclosures: None