Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan KF, Lai WS, Cheng SM, Tam OY, Wong HS, Lo BY, Lam FY
Affiliation :
Department of Medicine, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Introduction :
There was a persistent outbreak of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter (MDRA) since February, 2021 in the Department of Medicine. MDRA is a major public health challenge because of limited therapeutic alternatives and leads to hospitalization, increased morbidity and mortality.
Objectives :
To evaluate the effectiveness of implementing bundled strategies in preventing MDRA in cohort ward.
Methodology :
From February 2021 to May 2021, bundled strategies were implemented in the cohort ward. These include: 1, Affected case are clearly separated with transparent screen in each cubicle with isolation signage. 2, High-risk nursing procedures (enteral feeding, wound care, sputum suction and napkin round) were identified and corresponding infection program was developed. 3, Hand hygiene enhancement program and napkin round audit were implemented. 4, UV-C disinfection to the medical equipment and affected cubicle. 5, No sharing of medical equipment between existing exposed patients and newly admitted cases. 6, MDRA case keep bathing frequency within 3 days and bath with CHG bathing agents. 7, Patient education on personal hygiene was provided. 8, Admission and Day 14 MDRA screening were employed. 9, Audit on staff’s compliance to guideline was performed periodically. On-site briefing and feedback of the clinical outcome to the staff was carried out regularly.
Result & Outcome :
Result: After implementation of bundled strategies, there was no patients developed MDRA in the cohort ward. Hand hygiene compliance rate improved. MDRA outbreak was also subsided in medical department at the end of May 2021. Conclusions: Bundled strategies have reduced the MDRA transmission in ward setting. Sustaining the desirable outcome requires continuous effort. Ongoing surveillance program needs to be implemented to detect and prevent the spread of MDRA.
