American Academy of Pediatrics Pushes for Uniformity in Infant Testing Standards
Concerned by inconsistencies in state infant testing, the American Academy of Pediatrics is calling for the federal government to adopt uniform testing standards for infants. Currently tests are available for about 30 inherited diseases, but few states require newborn screening for all of them. All states do have mandatory newborn screening for phenylketonuria and hypothyroidism. In addition, most test for galactosemia and 41 test for sickle cell disease. The March of Dimes believes that in addition to these four tests, it should be mandatory to screen for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Testing for a single disease costs $1 or less and involves taking a drop of blood from a newborn's heel. Through a technology called tandem mass spectrometry, the same blood drop can be tested for more than 20 diseases for about $25. For more information visit www.aap.org.
I Was There: An Infection Preventionist on the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 30th 2025Deep feelings run strong about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some beautiful art has come out of those emotions. Infection Control Today is proud to share this poem by Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC, in response to a recent article by Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
