CDC releases guidance on drug-resistant infections

In an effort to stem the continuing rise of drug-resistant infections, the Centers for Disease Control has issued the "Management of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in Healthcare Settings" guidelines. These guidelines were developed by experts in collaboration with the CDC's Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC). The guidelines recommend the followings steps for hospitals and healthcare facilities:

• Ensure that prevention programs are funded and adequately staffed.
• Carefully track infection rates and related data to monitor the impact of prevention efforts.
• Ensure that staff use standard infection control practices and follow guidelines regarding the correct use of antibiotics.
• Promote best-practices with health education campaigns to increase adherence to established recommendations.
• Design robust prevention programs customized to specific settings and local needs.

CME Providers, what a great opportunity for you -- contact your Infection Control folks!