Wound Care

Big changes are around the corner. As of Oct. 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will stop paying hospitals for eight conditions that have evidence-based prevention guidelines. These ailments include pressure sores, catheter-associated infections, and infections associated with coronary artery bypass grafts. The Infection Control Today CMS Series will highlight the CMS changes, reactions of healthcare professionals, ...

The old adage, “The customer is always right,” has long been the mantra for those providing consumer goods and services. Whether purchasing the latest technology or dining at the newest restaurant, it has become generally accepted that customers will show their satisfaction through return visits, future purchases, or referrals. Healthcare, however, has traditionally followed a different path. Patients became accustomed ...

Sometimes connecting the dots reveals a grim picture. Several new reports about hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) show that the danger is increasing rapidly, and that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) isn’t leveling with the public about it.The CDC claims that 1.7 million people contract infections in U.S. hospitals each year. In fact, the truth is several times that ...

Water is a necessary part of human life, but it is also an abettor of life-taking pathogens and air is a common germ-smuggler too.Sick building syndrome is a big issue in healthcare facilities and makes it easier for fungus, mold and germs to infect patients and healthcare workers. Tuberculosis (TB) and other illnesses are only a cough away, in some ...

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are becoming increasingly popular in outpatient and inpatient settings to provide long-term venous access. Their benefit is undeniable, but there are consequences and they can be startling. CVCs disrupt skin integrity and therefore leave the epidermis susceptible to fungus and bacteria. Infection may spread to the bloodstream and create organ dysfunction or death. Nosocomial bloodstream infections ...