Help from Epi Info

Article Abstract:

Glasgow Royal Infirmary, UK, has used a public domain software program from the World Health Organization, Epi Info, to devise databases for central line, catheter and wound infection groups. Information on each patient referred to the infection control nurse (ICN) is entered into the database. This includes such data as the specific organism causing the infection and the disease category. As well as enabling ICNs to describe the epidemiology of infections within a hospital and evaluate their consequences, Epi Info can be used to audit related topics, such as wound infections.

Usage, Software, Nursing, Databases

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Watching brief

Article Abstract:

Details of a project to control phlebitis were announced at the conference of the Infection Control Nurses' Association in September 1996. All infection control nurses (ICNs) can participate in the project, which is aimed at cutting infections and phlebitis connected with peripheral vascular devices. The use of catheters can cause infections as the skin flora of patients can be connected with PVC-related (polyvinyl chloride) infections, and patients are susceptible to septicaemia.

Care and treatment, Thrombophlebitis

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An audit of catheter specimen testing practices in the ICU

Article Abstract:

The routine urinary monitoring procedures of intensive care units (ICU) within the National Health Service are inadequate in their diagnosis of urinary tract infection. A newly-defined system called SCOUT is described. The SCOUT method stands for: Screen for infection; Catheter in situ; Oliguria; Urinary debris visible and Transfer from another ICU. Additional research is suggested.

Research, Diagnosis, Urinary tract infections, Intensive care units

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