Diagnostic imaging in 2009: update on evidence-based practice of pediatric imaging. What is the role of imaging in sinusitis?

Health Care–Associated Infection in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

•Handwashing is the most important means of preventing nosocomial infection. Each pediatric intensive care unit should develop programs to increase compliance with hand hygiene. •Nonessential invasive devices should be removed. Establish routines that require individual patient evaluation of device use daily. •Antimicrobial stewardship aims to minimize overexposure and unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are an increasing concern as a cause of hospital-acquired infection, requiring a multipronged approach to control that includes adherence to isolation procedures, appropriate use of antibiotics, educational interventions, prescribing guidelines, and restriction of the use of some antibiotics. •A comprehensive infection prevention and control program allied with organizational quality and patient safety programs is an essential strategy for minimizing hospital-acquired infections. Critical care teams should establish strong collaborative partnerships with the infection prevention and control service. •Parents and visitors should be made partners of the infection control team to help prevent infection in their children.