In the War Against Infections.
Zyvox Becomes the Next Combatant
ROCKVILLE, MD-The first antibacterial drug in a new class of synthetic drugs, Zyvox, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a number of uses:
1. To treat infections associated with vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREF), including cases with bloodstream infection.
2. To treat nosocomial pneumonia and complicated skin and skin structure infections, including cases due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
3. To treat community-acquired pneumonia and uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections.
Developed and manufactured by Pharmacia and Upjohn, Zyvox is the first drug in over 40 years to be introduced to the US market for treatment of MRSA infections. Side effects reported in the clinical studies were headache, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. The most important laboratory test change was a decrease in platelet counts. Zyvox may interact with other drugs that contain pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine, such as over-the-counter cold remedies, and raise a patient's blood pressure.
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.
Phage Therapy’s Future: Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance With Precision Viruses
April 24th 2025Bacteriophage therapy presents a promising alternative to antibiotics, especially as antimicrobial resistance continues to increase. Dr. Ran Nir-Paz discusses its potential, challenges, and future applications in this technology.
