CDC Report Details Outbreaks from Single-Dose Vials Used for Multiple Patients
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a report detailing two life-threatening outbreaks that occurred when healthcare providers used medication from single-dose/single-use vials for multiple patients undergoing treatment for pain.Â
At least 10 patients contracted life-threatening staph or MRSA infections and had to be hospitalized. An additional patient died, and although the cause of death was reported as multiple-drug overdose, invasive MRSA infection could not be ruled out. Â
These breaches of basic infection control practices are a stark reminder that CDC recommendations for injection safety must be followed closely with every patient, even during times of medication shortages. In circumstances when individually packaged and appropriately sized single-dose/single-use vials are unavailable (e.g., during national shortage) contents from unopened vials can be packaged into multiple single-use vehicles, provided that the repackaging is performed in accordance with all standards in United States Pharmacopeia General Chapter <797 >.Â
Clinicians are encouraged to double check their practices against CDCs Injection Safety Recommendations. In addition, CDC offers healthcare providers a toolkit featuring a narrated PowerPoint presentation that is ideal for staff meetings, seminars and other education opportunities.Â
Read the MMWR report, review CDC recommendations, and get educational materials at:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6127a1.htm?s_cid=mm6127a1_w
Ensuring Safety and Comfort: The Urgent Need for Well-Fitted PPE in Health Care
April 5th 2024Personal protective equipment (PPE) stands as the first line of defense against infectious diseases in health care. Yet, the issue of ill-fitting PPE, especially for women, remains a significant challenge.
COVID-19 Harmonization: Balancing Risks and Benefits of CDC's Latest Move
March 11th 2024The CDC's recent decision to align recommendations for respiratory viruses, particularly COVID-19, has garnered support from the public and infectious disease societies. However, as the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) lends its backing to the CDC's harmonization efforts, concerns persist regarding the implications of this shift, especially considering the Omicron variant's unique characteristics and the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19's multi-system impacts.
Voices of Resilience: Q&A With the Editor of "Corona City: Voices From an Epicenter"
March 1st 2024Step into the diverse and poignant world of "Corona City: Voices From an Epicenter" with editor Lorraine Ash, MA. In this insightful Q&A, learn about the origins of this remarkable anthology, the challenges faced in capturing raw, unfiltered narratives of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impact of these stories on readers and communities alike.
Rare Disease Day 2024: Spotlight on Rare Infectious Diseases
February 29th 2024Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2024, shines a global light on the impact of rare diseases, including rare infectious diseases. With a focus on early diagnosis and treatment access, this day highlights the struggles of those with rare conditions.
