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Lev V, Anbarchian T, Yao H, Bhat A, Britt P, Shieh L. Health care-associated Clostridioides difficile infection: Learning the perspectives of health care workers to build successful strategies. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:284-292. [PMID: 37579972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clostridioides difficile (C difficile) is one of the most common health care-associated infections that negatively impact patient care and health care costs. This study takes a unique approach to C difficile infection (CDI) control by investigating key prevention obstacles through the perspectives of Stanford health care (SHC) frontline health care personnel. METHODS An anonymous qualitative survey was distributed at SHC, focusing on knowledge and practice of CDI prevention guidelines, as well as education, communication, and perspectives regarding CDI at SHC. RESULTS 112 survey responses were analyzed. Our findings unveiled gaps in personnel's knowledge of C difficile diagnostic guidelines and revealed a need for targeted communication and guideline-focused education. Health care staff shared preferences and recommendations, with the majority recommending enhanced communication of guidelines and information as a strategy for reducing CDI rates. The findings were then used to design and propose internal recommendations for SHC to mitigate the gaps found. DISCUSSION Many guidelines and improvement strategies are based on strong scientific and medical foundations; however, it is important to ask whether these guidelines are effectively translated into practice. Frontline health care workers hold empirical perspectives that could be key in infection control. CONCLUSIONS Our findings emphasize the importance of including frontline health care personnel in infection prevention decision-making processes and the strategies presented here can be applied to mitigating infections in different health care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vered Lev
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA.
| | | | - Hanqi Yao
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | | | | | - Lisa Shieh
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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2
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Bussell C, Vincent J, Brust K. Implementation of a multidisciplinary process to improve diagnostic stewardship of hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infections. Am J Infect Control 2023; 51:1329-1333. [PMID: 37295677 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testing inappropriate stool samples for Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile can lead to the identification of the patient colonized with C difficile and erroneous diagnosis of an active infection. We hypothesized that a multidisciplinary process to improve diagnostic stewardship could reduce our numbers of hospital-onset C difficile infection (HO-CDI). METHODS We created an algorithm describing appropriate stool specimens for polymerase chain reaction testing. The algorithm was converted into "ticket to test" checklist cards designed to accompany each specimen. Rejection of a specimen could occur via nursing staff or laboratory staff. RESULTS A baseline period of comparison was established from January 1, 2017 to June 30, 2017. Following implementation of all improvement strategies, a retrospective analysis was done, and the total number of HO-CDI cases in a 6-month period dropped from 57 to 32 cases. During the initial 3 months, the percentage of appropriate samples sent to the lab ranged from 41% to 65%. After the interventions were in place, the percentages improved between 71% and 91%. CONCLUSIONS A multidisciplinary approach led to improved diagnostic stewardship to identify true CDI cases. This, in turn, reduced the number of reported HO-CDIs, and resulted in potentially more than $1,080,000 in patient care savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Bussell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Temple, Temple, TX; Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Temple, Temple, TX.
| | - Jennifer Vincent
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Temple, Temple, TX
| | - Karen Brust
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Temple, Temple, TX
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3
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Castillo Almeida NE, Cichon CJ, Gomez CA. How I approach diarrhea in hematological transplant patients: A practical tool. Transpl Infect Dis 2023; 25 Suppl 1:e14184. [PMID: 37910586 DOI: 10.1111/tid.14184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Diarrhea in hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) remains a multifactorial challenge that demands a nuanced diagnostic approach. The causes of infectious diarrhea in HSCT recipients are diverse and influenced by patient-specific risk factors, the post-transplant timeline, and local epidemiology. During the past decade, our understanding of diarrhea in HSCT has witnessed a transformative shift through the incorporation of gastrointestinal (GI) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) panels. However, the judicious application of these panels is imperative to avoid overtesting and prevent adverse outcomes. The challenge lies in distinguishing between the diverse causes of diarrhea, ascertaining the clinical significance of detected pathogens, and navigating the diagnostic uncertainty presented by several non-infectious conditions such as mucositis, intestinal dysbiosis, and acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD), all of which mimic infection. This review examines the landscape of infectious diarrhea in the HSCT population, encompassing both established (e.g., Cytomegalovirus, Clostridioides difficile, and norovirus) and emerging pathogens (e.g., sapoviruses, astroviruses). We propose a multifaceted diagnostic algorithm that combines clinical assessment, risk stratification, and tailored utilization of molecular platforms. While multiplex GI panels present invaluable opportunities for rapid and comprehensive pathogen detection, their judicious use is pivotal in preserving diagnostic stewardship. Customization of diagnostic algorithms tailored to local epidemiology ensures optimal patient care and resource utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia E Castillo Almeida
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Catherine J Cichon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Carlos A Gomez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
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Ziegler MJ, Flores EJ, Epps M, Hopkins K, Glaser L, Mull NK, Pegues DA. Clostridioides difficile dynamic electronic order panel, an effective automated intervention to reduce inappropriate inpatient ordering. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:1294-1299. [PMID: 36927512 PMCID: PMC10750561 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2022.254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ordering Clostridioides difficile diagnostics without appropriate clinical indications can result in inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and misdiagnosis of hospital onset C. difficile infection. Manual processes such as provider review of order appropriateness may detract from other infection control or antibiotic stewardship activities. METHODS We developed an evidence-based clinical algorithm that defined appropriateness criteria for testing for C. difficile infection. We then implemented an electronic medical record-based order-entry tool that utilized discrete branches within the clinical algorithm including history of prior C. difficile test results, laxative or stool-softener administration, and documentation of unformed bowel movements. Testing guidance was then dynamically displayed with supporting patient data. We compared the rate of completed C. difficile tests after implementation of this intervention at 5 hospitals to a historic baseline in which a best-practice advisory was used. RESULTS Using mixed-effects Poisson regression, we found that the intervention was associated with a reduction in the incidence rate of both C. difficile ordering (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63-0.88; P = .001) and C. difficile-positive tests (IRR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.76-0.91; P < .001). On segmented regression analysis, we identified a sustained reduction in orders over time among academic hospitals and a new reduction in orders over time among community hospitals. CONCLUSIONS An evidence-based dynamic order panel, integrated within the electronic medical record, was associated with a reduction in both C. difficile ordering and positive tests in comparison to a best practice advisory, although the impact varied between academic and community facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Ziegler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Healthcare Epidemiology, Infection Prevention and Control, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Emilia J Flores
- Center for Evidence-based Practice, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
| | - Mika Epps
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathleen Hopkins
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Laurel Glaser
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nikhil K Mull
- Center for Evidence-based Practice, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - David A Pegues
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Healthcare Epidemiology, Infection Prevention and Control, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Stohs EJ, Gorsline CA. Opportunities for Antimicrobial Stewardship Interventions Among Solid Organ Transplant Recipients. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2023:S0891-5520(23)00041-7. [PMID: 37280135 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Although antimicrobial stewardship programs have excelled over the past decade, uptake and application of these programs to special populations such as solid organ transplant recipients have lagged. Here, we review the value of antimicrobial stewardship for transplant centers and highlight data supporting interventions that are ripe for adoption. In addition, we review the design of antimicrobial stewardship initiatives, targets for both syndromic and system-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica J Stohs
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985400 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5400, USA.
| | - Chelsea A Gorsline
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Mailstop 1028, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Kociolek LK, Gerding DN, Carrico R, Carling P, Donskey CJ, Dumyati G, Kuhar DT, Loo VG, Maragakis LL, Pogorzelska-Maziarz M, Sandora TJ, Weber DJ, Yokoe D, Dubberke ER. Strategies to prevent Clostridioides difficile infections in acute-care hospitals: 2022 Update. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:527-549. [PMID: 37042243 PMCID: PMC10917144 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2023.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Larry K. Kociolek
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States
| | - Dale N. Gerding
- Edward Hines Jr. Veterans’ Affairs (VA) Hospital, Hines, Illinois, United States
| | - Ruth Carrico
- Norton Healthcare, Louisville, Kentucky, United States
| | - Philip Carling
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Curtis J. Donskey
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Ghinwa Dumyati
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, United States
| | - David T. Kuhar
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Vivian G. Loo
- McGill University, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lisa L. Maragakis
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | | | - Thomas J. Sandora
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - David J. Weber
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Deborah Yokoe
- University of California San Francisco, UCSF Health-UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, California, United States and
| | - Erik R. Dubberke
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
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7
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Successful diagnostic stewardship for Clostridioides difficile testing in pediatrics. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:186-190. [PMID: 35702900 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2022.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To reduce both inappropriate testing for and diagnosis of healthcare-onset (HO) Clostridioides difficile infections (CDIs). DESIGN We performed a retrospective analysis of C. difficile testing from hospitalized children before (October 2017-October 2018) and after (November 2018-October 2020) implementing restrictive computerized provider order entry (CPOE). SETTING Study sites included hospital A (a ∼250-bed freestanding children's hospital) and hospital B (a ∼100-bed children's hospital within a larger hospital) that are part of the same multicampus institution. METHODS In October 2018, we implemented CPOE. No testing was allowed for infants aged ≤12 months, approval of the infectious disease team was required to test children aged 13-23 months, and pathology residents' approval was required to test all patients aged ≥24 months with recent laxative, stool softener, or enema use. Interrupted time series analysis and Mann-Whitney U test were used for analysis. RESULTS An interrupted time series analysis revealed that from October 2017 to October 2020, the numbers of tests ordered and samples sent significantly decreased in all age groups (P < .05). The monthly median number of HO-CDI cases significantly decreased after implementation of the restrictive CPOE in children aged 13-23 months (P < .001) and all ages combined (P = .003). CONCLUSION Restrictive CPOE for CDI in pediatrics was successfully implemented and sustained. Diagnostic stewardship for CDI is likely cost-saving and could decrease misdiagnosis, unnecessary antibiotic therapy, and overestimation of HO-CDI rates.
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Krouss M, Israilov S, Alaiev D, Tsega S, Talledo J, Chandra K, Zaurova M, Manchego PA, Cho HJ. SEE the DIFFerence: Reducing unnecessary C. difficile orders through clinical decision support in a large, urban safety-net system. Am J Infect Control 2022:S0196-6553(22)00783-0. [PMID: 36370868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) is a hospital-acquired infection. Overtesting for C. difficile leads to false positive results due to a high rate of asymptomatic colonization, resulting in unnecessary and harmful treatment for patients. METHODS This was a quality improvement initiative to decrease the rate of inappropriate C. difficile testing across 11 hospitals in an urban, safety-net setting. Three best practice advisories were created, alerting providers of recent laxative administration within 48 hours, a recent positive test within 14 days, and a recent negative test within 7 days. The outcome measures were the number of C. difficile tests per 1,000 patient days, as well as the rate of hospital onset C. difficile infection was compared pre- and post-intervention. The process measures included the rate of removal of the C. difficile test from the best practice advisory, as well as the subsequent 24-hour re-order rate. RESULTS The number of C. difficile tests decreased by 27.3% from 1.1 per 1,000 patient days preintervention (May 25, 2020-May 24, 2021) to 0.8 per 1,000 patient days postintervention, (May 25, 2021-March 25, 2022), P < .001. When stratified by hospital, changes in testing ranged from an increase of 12.5% to a decrease of 60%. Analysis among provider type showed higher behavior change among attendings than compared to trainees or advanced practice providers. There was a 12.1%, nonsignificant decrease in C. difficile rates from preintervention, 0.33 per 1,000 patient days compared to postintervention, 0.29 per 1,000 patient days, P=.32. CONCLUSIONS Using only an electronic health record intervention, we successfully decreased C. difficile orders after 72 hours of admission in a large, safety-net system. Variation existed among hospitals and by provider type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Krouss
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.
| | - Sigal Israilov
- Department of Anesthesia, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Daniel Alaiev
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY
| | - Surafel Tsega
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, New York, NY
| | - Joseph Talledo
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY
| | - Komal Chandra
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY
| | - Milana Zaurova
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY; Department of Emergency Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Peter Alacron Manchego
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY; Department of Pediatrics, NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, New York, NY
| | - Hyung J Cho
- Department of Quality & Safety, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
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Woods-Hill CZ, Colantuoni EA, Koontz DW, Voskertchian A, Xie A, Thurm C, Miller MR, Fackler JC, Milstone AM. Association of Diagnostic Stewardship for Blood Cultures in Critically Ill Children With Culture Rates, Antibiotic Use, and Patient Outcomes: Results of the Bright STAR Collaborative. JAMA Pediatr 2022; 176:690-698. [PMID: 35499841 PMCID: PMC9062771 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Importance Blood culture overuse in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) can lead to unnecessary antibiotic use and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Optimizing blood culture practices through diagnostic stewardship may reduce unnecessary blood cultures and antibiotics. Objective To evaluate the association of a 14-site multidisciplinary PICU blood culture collaborative with culture rates, antibiotic use, and patient outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective quality improvement (QI) collaborative involved 14 PICUs across the United States from 2017 to 2020 for the Bright STAR (Testing Stewardship for Antibiotic Reduction) collaborative. Data were collected from each participating PICU and from the Children's Hospital Association Pediatric Health Information System for prespecified primary and secondary outcomes. Exposures A local QI program focusing on blood culture practices in the PICU (facilitated by a larger QI collaborative). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was blood culture rates (per 1000 patient-days/mo). Secondary outcomes included broad-spectrum antibiotic use (total days of therapy and new initiations of broad-spectrum antibiotics ≥3 days after PICU admission) and PICU rates of central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), Clostridioides difficile infection, mortality, readmission, length of stay, sepsis, and severe sepsis/septic shock. Results Across the 14 PICUs, the blood culture rate was 149.4 per 1000 patient-days/mo preimplementation and 100.5 per 1000 patient-days/mo postimplementation, for a 33% relative reduction (95% CI, 26%-39%). Comparing the periods before and after implementation, the rate of broad-spectrum antibiotic use decreased from 506 days to 440 days per 1000 patient-days/mo, respectively, a 13% relative reduction (95% CI, 7%-19%). The broad-spectrum antibiotic initiation rate decreased from 58.1 to 53.6 initiations/1000 patient-days/mo, an 8% relative reduction (95% CI, 4%-11%). Rates of CLABSI decreased from 1.8 to 1.1 per 1000 central venous line days/mo, a 36% relative reduction (95% CI, 20%-49%). Mortality, length of stay, readmission, sepsis, and severe sepsis/septic shock were similar before and after implementation. Conclusions and Relevance Multidisciplinary diagnostic stewardship interventions can reduce blood culture and antibiotic use in the PICU. Future work will determine optimal strategies for wider-scale dissemination of diagnostic stewardship in this setting while monitoring patient safety and balancing measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Z. Woods-Hill
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Elizabeth A. Colantuoni
- Department of Biostatistics, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Danielle W. Koontz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Annie Voskertchian
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Anping Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Cary Thurm
- Children’s Hospital Association, Lenexa, Kansas
| | - Marlene R. Miller
- Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - James C. Fackler
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aaron M. Milstone
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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Hogan CA, Hitchcock MM, Frost S, Kapphahn K, Holubar M, Tompkins LS, Banaei N. Clinical Outcomes of Treated and Untreated C. difficile PCR-Positive/Toxin-Negative Adult Hospitalized Patients: a Quasi-Experimental Noninferiority Study. J Clin Microbiol 2022; 60:e0218721. [PMID: 35611653 PMCID: PMC9199396 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02187-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is routinely diagnosed by PCR, with or without toxin enzyme immunoassay testing. The role of therapy for positive PCR and negative toxin remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine whether clinical outcomes of PCR+/cycle threshold-based toxin (CT-toxin)- individuals vary by result reporting and treatment strategy. We performed a quasiexperimental noninferiority study comparing clinical outcomes of PCR+/CT-toxin- individuals by reporting PCR result only (most patients treated) with reporting CT-toxin result only (most patients untreated) in a single-center, tertiary academic hospital. The primary outcome was symptomatic PCR+/CT-toxin+ conversion at 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes included 7-day diarrhea resolution, hospital length of stay, and 30-day all-cause mortality. A total of 663 PCR+/CT-toxin- test results were analyzed from 632 individuals with a median age of 61 years (interquartile range [IQR], 44 to 72) and 50.4% immunocompromised. Individuals in the preintervention group were more likely to have received CDI therapy than those in the intervention group (91.5 versus 15.1%; P < 0.001). Symptomatic toxin conversion at 8 weeks and hospital length of stay failed to establish the predefined thresholds for noninferiority. Lack of diarrhea resolution at 7 days and 30-day all-cause mortality was similar and established noninferiority (20.0 versus 13.7%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.57; 90% confidence interval [CI], 0.32 to 1.01; P = 0.1; and 8.6 versus 6.5%; aOR, 0.46; 90% CI, 0.20 to 1.04; P = 0.12). These data support the safety of withholding antibiotics for selected hospitalized individuals with suspected CDI but negative toxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A. Hogan
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Matthew M. Hitchcock
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Central Virginia VA Health Care System, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Spencer Frost
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kristopher Kapphahn
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Marisa Holubar
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Quality, Patient Safety and Effectiveness, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Lucy S. Tompkins
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Niaz Banaei
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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11
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Sick-Samuels AC, Woods-Hill C. Diagnostic Stewardship in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2022; 36:203-218. [PMID: 35168711 PMCID: PMC8865365 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), clinicians encounter complex decision making, balancing the need to treat infections promptly against the potential harms of antibiotics. Diagnostic stewardship is an approach to optimize microbiology diagnostic test practices to reduce unnecessary antibiotic treatment. We review the evidence for diagnostic stewardship of blood, endotracheal, and urine cultures in the PICU. Clinicians should consider 3 questions applying diagnostic stewardship: (1) Does the patient have signs or symptoms of an infectious process? (2) What is the optimal diagnostic test available to evaluate for this infection? (3) How should the diagnostic specimen be collected to optimize results?
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Sick-Samuels
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Baltimore, MD,The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Department of Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control, Baltimore, MD
| | - Charlotte Woods-Hill
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.,The Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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12
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Sullivan KV. Diagnostic Stewardship in Clinical Microbiology, Essential Partner to Antimicrobial Stewardship. Clin Chem 2021; 68:75-82. [DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvab206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Diagnostic stewardship is an important partner to antimicrobial stewardship.
Content
Diagnostic stewardship focuses on ensuring correct diagnosis of infectious diseases while antimicrobial stewardship aims to optimize antimicrobial treatment. Both aim to improve patient outcomes. Diagnostic stewardship involves interventions that reduce testing in patients with low pretest probability, optimize a test’s likelihood ratio, and seek to warn providers when suboptimal test results might have been reported.
Conclusion
Diagnostic stewardship interventions have been described primarily in the areas of urinary tract infection, Clostridioides difficile infection, and bloodstream infection diagnosis. However, emerging areas include pneumonia and wound infections in addition to optimization of multiplexed panel-based testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaede V Sullivan
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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13
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Fatemi Y, Bergl PA. Diagnostic Stewardship: Appropriate Testing and Judicious Treatments. Crit Care Clin 2021; 38:69-87. [PMID: 34794632 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccc.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Diagnostic stewardship encompasses the entire diagnosis-to-treatment paradigm in the intensive care unit (ICU). Initially born of the antimicrobial stewardship movement, contemporary diagnostic stewardship aims to promote timely and appropriate diagnostic testing that directly links to management decisions. In the stewardship framework, excessive diagnostic testing in low probability cases is discouraged due to its tendency to generate false-positive results, which have their own downstream consequences. Though the evidence basis for diagnostic stewardship initiatives in the ICU is nascent and largely limited to retrospective analyses, available literature generally suggests that these initiatives are safe, feasible, and associated with similar patient outcomes. As diagnostic testing of critically ill patients becomes increasingly sophisticated in the ensuing decade, a stewardship mindset will aid bedside clinicians in interpreting and incorporating new diagnostic strategies in the ICU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Fatemi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Paul A Bergl
- Department of Critical Care, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center, 1900 South Avenue, Mail Stop LM3-001, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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14
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Krishna A, Chopra T. Prevention of Infection due to Clostridium (Clostridioides) difficile. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2021; 35:995-1011. [PMID: 34752229 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Clostridium (Clostridioides) difficile infection (CDI) causes significant morbidity and mortality in the United States every year. Prevention of CDI is difficult because of spore durability and requires implementation of multipronged strategies. Two categories of prevention strategies are infection control and prevention and risk factor reduction. Hand hygiene, contact precautions, patient isolation, and environmental decontamination are cornerstones of infection control and prevention. Risk factor reduction should focus on antibiotic stewardship to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. If CDI incidence remains higher than the institution's goal despite these measures, then special measures should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Krishna
- Internal Medicine, Norther Light AR Gould Hospital, 140 Academy Street, Presque Isle, ME 04769, USA.
| | - Teena Chopra
- Infectious Diseases, Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center, UHC-2B, 4201 St Antoine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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15
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Mizusawa M, Carroll KC. The future of Clostridioides difficile diagnostics. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2021; 34:483-490. [PMID: 34524199 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although the epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile has changed, this organism continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality. This review addresses current and future approaches to the diagnosis of C. difficile disease. RECENT FINDINGS Over the last several years, large prospective studies have confirmed that there is no single optimal test for the diagnosis of C. difficile disease. The pendulum has swung from a focus on rapid molecular diagnosis during the years of the ribotype 027 epidemic, to a call for use of algorithmic approaches that include a test for toxin detection. In addition, diagnostic stewardship has been shown to improve test utilization, especially with molecular methods. Advances in testing include development of ultrasensitive toxin tests and an expansion of biomarkers that may be more C. difficile specific. Microbiome research may be leveraged to inform novel diagnostic approaches based on measurements of volatile and nonvolatile organic compounds in stool. SUMMARY As rates of C. difficile infection decline, emphasis is now on improving test utilization and a quest for improved diagnostic approaches. These approaches may involve implementation of technologies that improve toxin testing, predict patients likely to have disease and/or a severe outcome, and harnessing research on changes in the microbiome to advance metabolomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Mizusawa
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Karen C Carroll
- Division of Medical Microbiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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16
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Curren EJ, Lutgring JD, Kabbani S, Diekema DJ, Gitterman S, Lautenbach E, Morgan DJ, Rock C, Salerno RM, McDonald LC. Advancing Diagnostic Stewardship for Healthcare Associated Infections, Antibiotic Resistance, and Sepsis. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 74:723-728. [PMID: 34346494 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnostic stewardship means ordering the right tests, for the right patient at the right time to inform optimal clinical care. Diagnostic stewardship is an integral part of antibiotic stewardship efforts to optimize antibiotic use and improve patient outcomes, including reductions in antibiotic resistance, and treatment of sepsis. CDC's Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion (DHQP) hosted a meeting on improving patient safety through diagnostic stewardship with a focus on the use of the laboratory. The meeting identified emerging issues in the field of diagnostic stewardship, raised awareness of these issues among stakeholders, and discussed strategies and interventions to address the issues-all with an emphasis on improved outcomes and patient safety. This white paper summarizes the key takeaways of the meeting including needs for diagnostic stewardship implementation, promising future avenues for diagnostic stewardship implementation, and areas of needed research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Curren
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Joseph D Lutgring
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Sarah Kabbani
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Daniel J Diekema
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine and Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA
| | - Steven Gitterman
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, D.C.,The George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| | - Ebbing Lautenbach
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Daniel J Morgan
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Clare Rock
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Reynolds M Salerno
- Division of Laboratory Systems, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - L Clifford McDonald
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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17
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Sick-Samuels AC, Linz M, Bergmann J, Fackler JC, Berenholtz SM, Ralston SL, Hoops K, Dwyer J, Colantuoni E, Milstone AM. Diagnostic Stewardship of Endotracheal Aspirate Cultures in a PICU. Pediatrics 2021; 147:peds.2020-1634. [PMID: 33827937 PMCID: PMC8086005 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-1634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians commonly obtain endotracheal aspirate cultures (EACs) in the evaluation of suspected ventilator-associated infections. However, bacterial growth in EACs does not distinguish bacterial colonization from infection and may lead to overtreatment with antibiotics. We describe the development and impact of a clinical decision support algorithm to standardize the use of EACs from ventilated PICU patients. METHODS We monitored EAC use using a statistical process control chart. We compared the rate of EACs using Poisson regression and a quasi-experimental interrupted time series model and assessed clinical outcomes 1 year before and after introduction of the algorithm. RESULTS In the preintervention year, there were 557 EACs over 5092 ventilator days; after introduction of the algorithm, there were 234 EACs over 3654 ventilator days (an incident rate of 10.9 vs 6.5 per 100 ventilator days). There was a 41% decrease in the monthly rate of EACs (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51-0.67; P < .001). The interrupted time series model revealed a preexisting 2% decline in the monthly culture rate (IRR: 0.98; 95% CI 0.97-1.0; P = .01), immediate 44% drop (IRR: 0.56; 95% CI 0.45-0.70; P = .02), and stable rate in the postintervention year (IRR: 1.03; 95% CI 0.99-1.07; P = .09). In-hospital mortality, hospital length of stay, 7-day readmissions, and All Patients Refined Diagnosis Related Group severity and mortality scores were stable. The estimated direct cost savings was $26 000 per year. CONCLUSIONS A clinical decision support algorithm standardizing EAC obtainment from ventilated PICU patients was associated with a sustained decline in the rate of EACs, without changes in mortality, readmissions, or length of stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Sick-Samuels
- Departments of Pediatrics and,Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Matthew Linz
- New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey; and
| | - Jules Bergmann
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, and
| | - James C. Fackler
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, and
| | - Sean M. Berenholtz
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, and,Departments of Health Policy and Management and,Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Katherine Hoops
- Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, and
| | - Joe Dwyer
- Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation Services, Division of Respiratory Care, Departments of Pediatrics and
| | - Elizabeth Colantuoni
- Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Aaron M. Milstone
- Departments of Pediatrics and,Hospital Epidemiology and Infection Control, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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18
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White NC, Mendo-Lopez R, Papamichael K, Cuddemi CA, Barrett C, Daugherty K, Pollock N, Kelly CP, Alonso CD. Laxative Use Does Not Preclude Diagnosis or Reduce Disease Severity in Clostridiodes difficile Infection. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:1472-1478. [PMID: 31584632 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To optimize utility of laboratory testing for Clostridiodes difficile infection (CDI), the 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America-Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (IDSA-SHEA) clinical practice guidelines recommend excluding patients from stool testing for C. difficile if they have received laxatives within the preceding 48 hours. Sparse data support this recommendation. METHODS Patients with new-onset diarrhea (≥3 bowel movements in any 24-hour period in the 48 hours before stool collection) and a positive stool C. difficile nucleic acid amplification test were enrolled. Laxative use within 48 hours before stool testing, severity of illness (defined by 4 distinct scoring methods), and clinical outcomes were recorded. RESULTS 209 patients with CDI were studied, 65 of whom had received laxatives. There were no significant differences in the proportion of patients meeting severe CDI criteria by 4 severity scoring methods in patients receiving versus not receiving laxatives (66.2% vs 56.3%, respectively; P = .224) by IDSA-SHEA, the primary scoring system. Similar rates of serious outcomes attributable to CDI, including death, intensive care unit admission, and colectomy, were observed in the laxative and no laxative groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study found similar rates of severe CDI and serious CDI-attributable clinical outcomes in CDI-diagnosed patients who did or did not receive laxatives. Precluding recent laxative users from CDI testing, as proposed by the IDSA-SHEA guideline, carries a potential for harm due to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C White
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rafael Mendo-Lopez
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Konstantinos Papamichael
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christine A Cuddemi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Caitlin Barrett
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Daugherty
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nira Pollock
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ciaran P Kelly
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carolyn D Alonso
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Rock C, Maragakis LL. Diagnostic Stewardship for Clostridiodes difficile Testing: From Laxatives to Diarrhea and Beyond. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:1479-1480. [PMID: 31584627 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Rock
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Lisa L Maragakis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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20
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Mizusawa M, Carroll KC. Advances and required improvements in methods to diagnosing Clostridioides difficile infections in the healthcare setting. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2021; 21:311-321. [PMID: 33682564 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2021.1900737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clostrididioides difficile is associated with adverse clinical outcomes and increased morbidity, mortality, length of hospital stay, and health-care costs.Areas Covered: We searched relevant papers in PubMed for the last 10 years. In major papers, we scanned the bibliographies to ensure that important articles were included. This review addresses the evolving epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and discusses novel methods/approaches for improving the diagnosis of this important disease. EXPERT OPINION No single diagnostic test to date has demonstrated optimum sensitivity and specificity for detection of CDI. Many institutions have developed multi-step algorithms consistent with guidelines established by various professional societies. Some institutions have successfully tried to improve the pretest probability of molecular assays by implementing appropriate sample rejection criteria and establishing best practice alerts at the time of electronic order entry. Others have established PCR cycle threshold cutoffs to attempt to differentiate symptomatic patients from asymptomatic carriers or to make predictions about severity of disease with variable success. As research advances our understanding of C. difficile pathogenesis and pathophysiology, more information on CDI specific biomarkers is emerging. Finally, assessments of the microbiome and metabolome may expand the diagnostic armamentarium with advances in mass spectrometry and sequencing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Mizusawa
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Karen C Carroll
- Director Division of Medical Microbiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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21
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Bosch DE, Mathias PC, Krumm N, Bryan A, Fang FC, Greninger AL. Elevated white blood cell count does not predict Clostridium difficile nucleic acid testing results. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:699-705. [PMID: 33564820 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An elevated white blood cell count (>15 thousand/μL) is an established prognostic marker in patients with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Small observational studies have suggested that a markedly elevated WBC should prompt consideration of CDI. However, there is limited evidence correlating WBC elevation with the results of C. difficile nucleic acid testing (NAAT). METHODS Retrospective review of laboratory testing, outcomes, and treatment of 16,568 consecutive patients presenting to 4 hospitals over four years with NAAT and WBC testing on the same day. RESULTS No significant relationship between C. difficile NAAT results and concurrent WBC in the inpatient setting was observed. Although an elevated WBC did predict NAAT results in the outpatient and emergency department populations (p<0.001), accuracy was poor, with receiver-operator areas under the curve of 0.59 and 0.56. An elevated WBC (>15 thousand/μL) in CDI was associated with a longer median hospital length of stay (15.5 vs. 11.0 days, p<0.01), consistent with leukocytosis as a prognostic marker in CDI. NAAT-positive inpatients with elevated WBC were more likely to be treated with metronidazole and/or vancomycin (relative ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 1.1-1.3) and die in the hospital (relative ratio 2.9, 95% CI 2.0-4.3). CONCLUSIONS Although WBC is an important prognostic indicator in patients with CDI, an isolated WBC elevation has low sensitivity and specificity as a predictor of fecal C. difficile NAAT positivity in the inpatient setting. A high or rising WBC in isolation is not a sufficient indication for CDI testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin E Bosch
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Patrick C Mathias
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Niklas Krumm
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew Bryan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ferric C Fang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alex L Greninger
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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22
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Wang EW, Weekley A, McCarty J, Koo H, Lembcke B, Al Mohajer M. Impact of a division-wide bundle on hospital-acquired Clostridioides difficile cases, antibiotic days of therapy, testing appropriateness, and associated financial costs. Avicenna J Med 2021; 11:27-32. [PMID: 33520786 PMCID: PMC7839267 DOI: 10.4103/ajm.ajm_193_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Updated international guidelines recommend the use of a two-step algorithm (glutamate dehydrogenase [GDH] or nucleic-acid amplification test [NAAT] plus toxin) rather than NAAT alone for the diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile (formerly Clostridium difficile) infections. The goal of our project was to evaluate the impact of a new bundle on the rate of hospital-acquired C. difficile infections (CDIs), hospital-acquired CDI standardized infection ratio (SIR), antibiotic days of therapy (DOT), and financial cost. Materials and Methods: The new bundle was implemented in April 2018. This bundle was implemented across five hospitals in Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) Texas Division. The bundle included a switch from NAAT to a two-step process (GDH and toxin). We placed the new test in an order panel which included enteric isolation and required indications for C. difficile testing. We used quarterly data pre- and post-intervention to calculate SIR and DOT. Results: In the pre-intervention period, 15.5% of the total 3513 C. difficile NAAT was positive. In the post-intervention period, 5.7% of a total of 2845 GDH and toxin assays was positive for both GDH and toxin (P < 0.0001). SIR, which adjusts for denominator and change in testing methodology, also dropped from 1.02 to 0.43. The estimated cost associated with positive C. difficile cases dropped from 1,932,150 USD to 1,113,800 USD with an estimated yearly cost saving of 794,150 USD. Compliance with enteric isolation improved from 73.1% to 92.5% (P = 0.008). Conclusion: The new testing bundle led to a marked reduction in hospital-acquired CDI and unnecessary treatment, reduction in C. difficile testing, an increase in compliance with enteric isolation, and significant cost savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Wenqian Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ashlee Weekley
- Department of Infection Prevention & Control, CHI Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer McCarty
- Department of Infection Prevention & Control, CHI Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hoonmo Koo
- Department of Infection Prevention & Control, CHI Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bradley Lembcke
- Department of Infection Prevention & Control, CHI Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Mayar Al Mohajer
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Infection Prevention & Control, CHI Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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23
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Using diagnostic stewardship to reduce rates, healthcare expenditures and accurately identify cases of hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2020; 42:51-56. [PMID: 32943129 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2020.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lack of judicious testing can result in the incorrect diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI), unnecessary CDI treatment, increased costs and falsely augmented hospital-acquired infection (HAI) rates. We evaluated facility-wide interventions used at the VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS) to reduce healthcare-onset, healthcare-facility-associated CDI (HO-HCFA CDI), including the use of diagnostic stewardship with test ordering criteria. DESIGN We conducted a retrospective study to assess the effectiveness of measures implemented to reduce the rate of HO-HCFA CDI at the VASDHS from fiscal year (FY)2015 to FY2018. INTERVENTIONS Measures executed in a stepwise fashion included a hand hygiene initiative, prompt isolation of CDI patients, enhanced terminal room cleaning, reduction of fluoroquinolone and proton-pump inhibitor use, laboratory rejection of solid stool samples, and lastly diagnostic stewardship with C. difficile toxin B gene nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) criteria instituted in FY2018. RESULTS From FY2015 to FY2018, 127 cases of HO-HCFA CDI were identified. All rate-reducing initiatives resulted in decreased HO-HCFA cases (from 44 to 13; P ≤ .05). However, the number of HO-HCFA cases (34 to 13; P ≤ .05), potential false-positive testing associated with colonization and laxative use (from 11 to 4), hospital days (from 596 to 332), CDI-related hospitalization costs (from $2,780,681 to $1,534,190) and treatment cost (from $7,158 vs $1,476) decreased substantially following the introduction of diagnostic stewardship with test criteria from FY2017 to FY2018. CONCLUSIONS Initiatives to decrease risk for CDI and diagnostic stewardship of C. difficile stool NAAT significantly reduced HO-HCFA CDI rates, detection of potential false-positives associated with laxative use, and lowered healthcare costs. Diagnostic stewardship itself had the most dramatic impact on outcomes observed and served as an effective tool in reducing HO-HCFA CDI rates.
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24
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Clostridioides difficile infections in Saudi Arabia: Where are we standing? Saudi Pharm J 2020; 28:1118-1121. [PMID: 32922143 PMCID: PMC7474162 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infections (CDIs) are infamous healthcare-associated infections for causing watery diarrhea to long-term hospitalized patients with a high mortality rate. Epidemiological reports from western countries showed up-trending pattern in the number of CDIs cases. It is becoming immensely challenging for routine diagnostic protocols to detect CDIs accurately with short turnaround time. In Saudi Arabia, there is a paucity of data about CDIs’ prevalence, recurrence rate, methods of screening and mortality rate. Nevertheless, a growing number of cases with similar virulence strains and comparable antibiotic resistance pattern to the western countries counterparts reported data were also detected. This review aims to present the status of CDIs’ diagnosis and incidence rate in Saudi Arabia based on current literature.
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25
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Baghdadi J, Ganz DA, Chumpia M, Chang ET, de Peralta SS. Holding firm: Use of clinical correlation to improve Clostridioides difficile testing. Am J Infect Control 2020; 48:1104-1107. [PMID: 31862165 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2019.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A project involving 3 Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles was undertaken to improve testing for Clostridioides difficile at a Veterans Administration medical center. The Plan-Do-Study-Act process facilitated stakeholder engagement and allowed each successive intervention to build on the prior, resulting in a decline in the rate of hospital-onset C difficile infection.
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26
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Liu C, Lan K, Krantz EM, Kim HN, Zier J, Bryson-Cahn C, Chan JD, Jain R, Lynch JB, Pergam SA, Pottinger PS, Sweet A, Whimbey E, Bryan A. Improving Appropriate Diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile Infection Through an Enteric Pathogen Order Set With Computerized Clinical Decision Support: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa366. [PMID: 33094113 PMCID: PMC7566360 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inappropriate testing for Clostridioides difficile leads to overdiagnosis of C difficile infection (CDI). We determined the effect of a computerized clinical decision support (CCDS) order set on C difficile polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test utilization and clinical outcomes. Methods This study is an interrupted time series analysis comparing C difficile PCR test utilization, hospital-onset CDI (HO-CDI) rates, and clinical outcomes before and after implementation of a CCDS order set at 2 academic medical centers: University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) and Harborview Medical Center (HMC). Results Compared with the 20-month preintervention period, during the 12-month postimplementation of the CCDS order set, there was an immediate and sustained reduction in C difficile PCR test utilization rates at both hospitals (HMC, -28.2% [95% confidence interval {CI}, -43.0% to -9.4%], P = .005; UWMC, -27.4%, [95% CI, -37.5% to -15.6%], P < .001). There was a significant reduction in rates of C difficile tests ordered in the setting of laxatives (HMC, -60.8% [95% CI, -74.3% to -40.1%], P < .001; UWMC, -37.3%, [95% CI, -58.2% to -5.9%], P = .02). The intervention was associated with an increase in the C difficile test positivity rate at HMC (P = .01). There were no significant differences in HO-CDI rates or in the proportion of patients with HO-CDI who developed severe CDI or CDI-associated complications including intensive care unit transfer, extended length of stay, 30-day mortality, and toxic megacolon. Conclusions Computerized clinical decision support tools can improve C difficile diagnostic test stewardship without causing harm. Additional studies are needed to identify key elements of CCDS tools to further optimize C difficile testing and assess their effect on adverse clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Liu
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kristine Lan
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Krantz
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - H Nina Kim
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jacqlynn Zier
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Chloe Bryson-Cahn
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jeannie D Chan
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rupali Jain
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - John B Lynch
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Steven A Pergam
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Paul S Pottinger
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ania Sweet
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Estella Whimbey
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andrew Bryan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Emberger J, Hitchcock MM, Markley JD. Diagnostic Stewardship Approaches to Clostridioides difficile Infection in the Era of Two-Step Testing: a Shifting Landscape. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-020-00223-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Madden GR, Enfield KB, Sifri CD. Patient Outcomes With Prevented vs Negative Clostridioides difficile Tests Using a Computerized Clinical Decision Support Tool. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa094. [PMID: 32328506 PMCID: PMC7166115 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overtesting and overdiagnosis of Clostridioides difficile infection are suspected to be common. Reducing inappropriate testing through interventions designed to promote evidence-based diagnostic testing (ie, diagnostic stewardship) may improve C. difficile test utilization. However, the safety of these interventions is not well understood despite the potential risk for missed or delayed diagnoses. Methods This retrospective case-control study examined the outcomes of patients admitted to the University of Virginia Medical Center following introduction of a computerized clinical decision support tool without hard-stops designed to reduce inappropriate tests. Outcomes were compared between patients with a prevented C. difficile nucleic acid amplification test and those with a negative result. Chart reviews were performed for patients with a subsequent positive within 7 days, as well as those patients who received C. difficile-active antibiotics after implementation of the computerized clinical decision support tool. Results Multivariate analysis of 637 cases (490 negative, 147 prevented) showed that a prevented test was not significantly associated with the primary composite outcome (inpatient mortality or intensive care unit transfer) compared with a negative test (adjusted odds ratio, 0.912; P = .747). Fifty-four of 147 (37%) prevented tests were followed by a completed test within 7 days; 11 of these results were positive, resulting in a potential delay in diagnosis. Individual case reviews found that either clinical changes warranted the delay in testing or no adverse events occurred attributable to C. difficile infection. C. difficile treatment without a positive test was not identified. Conclusions Diagnostic stewardship of C. difficile testing using computerized clinical decision support may be both safe and effective for reducing inappropriate inpatient testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Madden
- Division of Infectious Diseases & International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Kyle B Enfield
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Costi D Sifri
- Division of Infectious Diseases & International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.,Office of Hospital Epidemiology/Infection Prevention & Control, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Boly FJ, Reske KA, Kwon JH. The Role of Diagnostic Stewardship in Clostridioides difficile Testing: Challenges and Opportunities. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2020; 22:7. [PMID: 33762897 PMCID: PMC7987129 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-020-0715-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Accurate and timely diagnosis of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is imperative to prevent C. difficile transmission and reduce morbidity and mortality due to CDI, but CDI laboratory diagnostics are complex. The purpose of this article is to review the role of laboratory tests in the diagnosis of CDI, and the role of diagnostic stewardship in optimization of C. difficile testing. RECENT FINDINGS Results from C. difficile diagnostic tests should be interpreted with an understanding of the strengths and limitations inherent in each testing approach. Use of highly sensitive molecular diagnostic tests without accounting for clinical signs and symptoms may lead to over-diagnosis of CDI and increased facility CDI rates. Current guidelines recommend a two-step, algorithmic approach for testing. Diagnostic stewardship interventions, such as education, order sets, order search menus, reflex orders, hard and soft stop alerts, electronic references, feedback and benchmarking, decision algorithms, and predictive analytics may help improve use of C. difficile laboratory tests and CDI diagnosis. The diagnostic stewardship approaches with the highest reported success rates include computerized clinical decision support (CCDS) interventions, face-to-face feedback, and real-time evaluations. SUMMARY CDI is a clinical diagnosis supported by laboratory findings. Together, clinical evaluation combined with diagnostic stewardship can optimize the accurate diagnosis of CDI.
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Abbasi S, Singh F, Griffel M, Murphy PF. A Process Approach to Decreasing Hospital Onset Clostridium difficile Infections. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf 2020; 46:146-152. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjq.2019.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Carroll KC, Mizusawa M. Laboratory Tests for the Diagnosis of Clostridium difficile. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2020; 33:73-81. [PMID: 32104159 PMCID: PMC7042017 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-3400476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clostridium (reclassified as " Clostridioides ") difficile is an anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium that causes significant disease through elaboration of two potent toxins in patients whose normal gut microbiota has been altered through antimicrobial or chemotherapeutic agents (dysbiosis). The optimum method of laboratory diagnosis is still somewhat controversial. Recent practice guidelines published by professional societies recommend a two-step approach beginning with a test for glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), followed by a toxin test and/or a nucleic acid test. Alternatively, in institutions where established clinical algorithms guide testing, a nucleic acid test alone is acceptable. Nucleic acid tests are the methods of choice in approximately 50% of laboratories in the United States. These tests are considered as the most sensitive methods for detection of C. difficile in stool and are the least specific. Because of the lower specificity with nucleic acid tests, some clinicians believe that toxin enzyme immunoassays are better predictors of disease, despite their known poor performance in certain patient populations. This review will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the currently available test methods for the diagnosis of C. difficile with a brief mention of some novel assays that are currently in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen C. Carroll
- Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Pathology, the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Address for correspondence Karen C. Carroll, MD Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Pathology, the Johns Hopkins University School of MedicineMeyer B1-193, 600 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore MD 21287
| | - Masako Mizusawa
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri
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Schwenk HT, Bio LL, Kruger JF, Banaei N. Clinical Impact of Clostridium difficile PCR Cycle Threshold-Predicted Toxin Reporting in Pediatric Patients. J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2020; 9:44-50. [PMID: 30476169 DOI: 10.1093/jpids/piy117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reliance on tests that detect only the presence of toxigenic Clostridium difficile can result in overdiagnosis and overtreatment of C difficile infection (CDI). The C difficile polymerase chain reaction (PCR) cycle threshold (CT) can sensitively predict the presence of free C difficile toxins; however, the clinical application for this testing strategy remains unexplored. We evaluated the impact of dual PCR and toxin result reporting, as predicted by the CT, on CDI management and outcomes in children. METHODS Before the intervention, results for C difficile testing at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford were reported as PCR positive (PCR+) or negative (PCR-) according to the GeneXpert C diff Epi tcdB PCR assay (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, California). Beginning October 5, 2016, the presence of free toxins, as predicted by the CT, was reported also. The CDI treatment rates 1 year before and 18 months after implementation of toxin reporting were compared. Demographic and treatment-related data were collected, and patient outcomes were followed up 8 weeks later. RESULTS CDI treatment decreased 22% after the intervention (96% [preintervention] vs 74% [postintervention]; P < .001). During the postintervention period, there were 152 PCR+C difficile results, and 94 (62%) of them were toxin positive (toxin+) according to the CT. Of the 58 PCR+/toxin-negative (toxin-) results, 38 (66%) did not result in CDI treatment. Seven (18%) of the untreated PCR+/toxin- patients underwent repeat testing within 8 weeks, and 5 (13%) of them were subsequently PCR+/toxin+ and treated. No CDI-related complications were identified. CONCLUSIONS Addition of the CT-predicted C difficile toxin result to PCR reporting reduces the proportion of PCR+ children treated for CDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden T Schwenk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Laura L Bio
- Department of Pharmacy, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jenna F Kruger
- Center for Quality and Clinical Effectiveness, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Niaz Banaei
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California
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The impact of an electronic medical record nudge on reducing testing for hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2020; 41:411-417. [PMID: 32036798 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2020.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of an electronic medical record (EMR) nudge at reducing total and inappropriate orders testing for hospital-onset Clostridioides difficile infection (HO-CDI). DESIGN An interrupted time series analysis of HO-CDI orders 2 years before and 2 years after the implementation of an EMR intervention designed to reduce inappropriate HO-CDI testing. Orders for C. difficile testing were considered inappropriate if the patient had received a laxative or stool softener in the previous 24 hours. SETTING Four hospitals in an academic healthcare network. PATIENTS All patients with a C. difficile order after hospital day 3. INTERVENTION Orders for C. difficile testing in patients administered a laxative or stool softener in <24 hours triggered an EMR alert defaulting to cancellation of the order ("nudge"). RESULTS Of the 17,694 HO-CDI orders, 7% were inappropriate (8% prentervention vs 6% postintervention; P < .001). Monthly HO-CDI orders decreased by 21% postintervention (level-change rate ratio [RR], 0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73-0.86), and the rate continued to decrease (postintervention trend change RR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98-1.00). The intervention was not associated with a level change in inappropriate HO-CDI orders (RR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.61-1.05), but the postintervention inappropriate order rate decreased over time (RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.93-0.97). CONCLUSION An EMR nudge to minimize inappropriate ordering for C. difficile was effective at reducing HO-CDI orders, and likely contributed to decreasing the inappropriate HO-CDI order rate after the intervention.
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Major technologic advances in two main areas of molecular infectious disease diagnostics have resulted in accelerated adoption or ordering, outpacing implementation, and clinical utility studies. Physicians must understand the limitations to and appropriate utilization of these technologies in order to provide cost-effective and well-informed care for their patients. Recent Findings Rapid molecular testing and, to a lesser degree, clinical metagenomics are now being routinely used in clinical practice. While these tests allow for a breadth of interrogation not possible with conventional microbiology, they pose new challenges for diagnostic and antimicrobial stewardship programs. This review will summarize the most recent literature on these two categories of technologic advances and discuss the few studies that have looked at utilization and stewardship approaches. This review also highlights the future directions for both of these technologies. Summary The appropriate utilization of rapid molecular testing and clinical metagenomics has not been well established. More studies are needed to assess their prospective impacts on patient management and antimicrobial stewardship efforts as the future state of infectious disease diagnostics will see continued expansion of these technologic advances.
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Pollock NR, Banz A, Chen X, Williams D, Xu H, Cuddemi CA, Cui AX, Perrotta M, Alhassan E, Riou B, Lantz A, Miller MA, Kelly CP. Comparison of Clostridioides difficile Stool Toxin Concentrations in Adults With Symptomatic Infection and Asymptomatic Carriage Using an Ultrasensitive Quantitative Immunoassay. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 68:78-86. [PMID: 29788296 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We used an ultrasensitive, quantitative single molecule array (Simoa) immunoassay to test whether concentrations of Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile toxins A and/or B in the stool of adult inpatients with C. difficile infection (CDI) were higher than in asymptomatic carriers of toxinogenic C. difficile. Methods Patients enrolled as CDI-NAAT had clinically significant diarrhea and a positive nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), per US guidelines, and received CDI treatment. Potential carriers had recently received antibiotics and did not have diarrhea; positive NAAT confirmed carriage. Baseline stool samples were tested by Simoa for toxin A and B. Results Stool toxin concentrations in both CDI-NAAT (n = 122) and carrier-NAAT (n = 44) cohorts spanned 5 logs (0 pg/mL to >100000 pg/mL). Seventy-nine of 122 (65%) CDI-NAAT and 34 of 44 (77%) carrier-NAAT had toxin A + B concentration ≥20 pg/mL (clinical cutoff). Median toxin A, toxin B, toxin A + B, and NAAT cycle threshold (Ct) values in CDI-NAAT and carrier-NAAT cohorts were similar (toxin A, 50.6 vs 60.0 pg/mL, P = .958; toxin B, 89.5 vs 42.3 pg/mL, P = .788; toxin A + B, 197.2 vs 137.3 pg/mL, P = .766; Ct, 28.1 vs 28.6, P = .354). However, when CDI/carrier cohorts were limited to those with detectable toxin, respective medians were significantly different (A: 874.0 vs 129.7, P = .021; B: 1317.0 vs 81.7, P = .003, A + B, 4180.7 vs 349.6, P = .004; Ct, 25.8 vs 27.7, P = .015). Conclusions Toxin concentration did not differentiate an individual with CDI from one with asymptomatic carriage. Median stool toxin concentrations in groups with CDI vs carriage differed, but only when groups were defined by detectable stool toxin (vs positive NAAT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nira R Pollock
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Massachusetts
| | | | - Xinhua Chen
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | - David Williams
- Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Massachusetts
| | - Hua Xu
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | - Christine A Cuddemi
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | - Alice X Cui
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | - Matthew Perrotta
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | - Eaman Alhassan
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
| | | | | | | | - Ciaran P Kelly
- Divisions of Infectious Disease and Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston
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Hitchcock MM, Holubar M, Hogan CA, Tompkins LS, Banaei N. Dual Reporting of Clostridioides difficile PCR and Predicted Toxin Result Based on PCR Cycle Threshold Reduces Treatment of Toxin-Negative Patients without Increases in Adverse Outcomes. J Clin Microbiol 2019; 57:e01288-19. [PMID: 31511334 PMCID: PMC6812995 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01288-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid amplification tests are commonly used to diagnose Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Two-step testing with a toxin enzyme immunoassay is recommended to discriminate between infection and colonization but requires additional resources. Prior studies showed that PCR cycle threshold (CT ) can predict toxin positivity with high negative predictive value. Starting in October 2016, the predicted toxin result (CT-toxin) based on a validated cutoff was routinely reported at our facility. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of this reporting, all adult patients with positive GeneXpert PCR results from October 2016 through October 2017 underwent a chart review to measure the recurrence of or conversion to a CT-toxin+ result and 30-day all-cause mortality. There were 482 positive PCR tests in 430 unique patients, 282 CT-toxin+ and 200 CT-toxin- Patient characteristics were similar at testing, though CT-toxin+ patients had higher white blood cell (WBC) counts (12.5 × 103 versus 9.3 × 103 cells/μl; P = 0.001). All cases (n = 21) of fulminant CDI had a CT-toxin+ result. Index CT-toxin+ patients were significantly more likely to have a CT-toxin+ result within 90 days than CT-toxin- patients (17.4% [n = 49] versus 8.0% [n = 16], respectively; P = 0.003). Thirty-day all-cause mortality was higher in CT-toxin- patients (11.1% versus 6.8%; P = 0.1), though no deaths in CT-toxin- patients were directly attributable to CDI. Of the 200 CT-toxin- patients, 51.5% (n = 103) were treated for CDI. The rates of conversion to a CT-toxin+ result (8.8% versus 7.2%; P = 0.8) and all-cause mortality (8.8% versus 13.4%; P = 0.3) were similar between treated and untreated CT-toxin- patients, respectively. CT -based toxin prediction may identify patients at higher risk for CDI-related complications and reduce treatment among CT-toxin- patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M Hitchcock
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Marisa Holubar
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Catherine A Hogan
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Lucy S Tompkins
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Niaz Banaei
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California, USA
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Increased Clinical Specificity with Ultrasensitive Detection of Clostridioides difficile Toxins: Reduction of Overdiagnosis Compared to Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests. J Clin Microbiol 2019; 57:JCM.00945-19. [PMID: 31434726 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00945-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is one of the most common health care-associated infections, resulting in significant morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Diagnosis of CDI relies on the assessment of clinical presentation and laboratory tests. We evaluated the clinical performance of ultrasensitive single-molecule counting technology for detection of C. difficile toxins A and B. Stool specimens from 298 patients with suspected CDI were tested with the nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT; BD MAX Cdiff assay or Xpert C. difficile assay) and Singulex Clarity C. diff toxins A/B assay. Specimens with discordant results were tested with the cell cytotoxicity neutralization assay (CCNA), and the results were correlated with disease severity and outcome. There were 64 NAAT-positive and 234 NAAT-negative samples. Of the 32 NAAT+/Clarity- and 4 NAAT-/Clarity+ samples, there were 26 CCNA- and 4 CCNA- samples, respectively. CDI relapse was more common in NAAT+/toxin+ patients than in NAAT+/toxin- and NAAT-/toxin- patients. The clinical specificity of Clarity and NAAT was 97.4% and 89.0%, respectively, and overdiagnosis was more than three times more common in NAAT+/toxin- than in NAAT+/toxin+ patients. The Clarity assay was superior to NAATs for the diagnosis of CDI, by reducing overdiagnosis and thereby increasing clinical specificity, and the presence of toxins was associated with negative patient outcomes.
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Reich N, Payne M, Sharma A, Champagne S, Romney MG, Hinch M, Leung V, Lowe CF. Prospective Review of Clostridioides difficile Testing Indications to Inform Local Laboratory Stewardship Initiatives. Infect Prev Pract 2019; 1:100017. [PMID: 34368678 PMCID: PMC8335927 DOI: 10.1016/j.infpip.2019.100017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We conducted a prospective chart review to determine the prevalence of and reasons for inappropriate Clostridioides difficile test-ordering at a tertiary care hospital. Inappropriate orders accounted for 54% of all tests. The two primary aetiologies of inappropriate test-ordering were an alternative reason for diarrhoea (34%) and an asymptomatic patient (20%). These results highlight the need to focus diagnostic stewardship of C. difficile testing on pre-analytical factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Reich
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael Payne
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Infection Prevention and Control, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Azra Sharma
- Infection Prevention and Control, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Champagne
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marc G Romney
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michelle Hinch
- Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Victor Leung
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Infection Prevention and Control, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher F Lowe
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Infection Prevention and Control, Providence Health Care, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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40
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Kraft CS, Parrott JS, Cornish NE, Rubinstein ML, Weissfeld AS, McNult P, Nachamkin I, Humphries RM, Kirn TJ, Dien Bard J, Lutgring JD, Gullett JC, Bittencourt CE, Benson S, Bobenchik AM, Sautter RL, Baselski V, Atlas MC, Marlowe EM, Miller NS, Fischer M, Richter SS, Gilligan P, Snyder JW. A Laboratory Medicine Best Practices Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) and Algorithms Including NAATs for the Diagnosis of Clostridioides ( Clostridium) difficile in Adults. Clin Microbiol Rev 2019; 32:32/3/e00032-18. [PMID: 31142497 PMCID: PMC6589859 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00032-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The evidence base for the optimal laboratory diagnosis of Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile in adults is currently unresolved due to the uncertain performance characteristics and various combinations of tests. This systematic review evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of laboratory testing algorithms that include nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) to detect the presence of C. difficile The systematic review and meta-analysis included eligible studies (those that had PICO [population, intervention, comparison, outcome] elements) that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of NAAT alone or following glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) or GDH EIAs plus C. difficile toxin EIAs (toxin). The diagnostic yield of NAAT for repeat testing after an initial negative result was also assessed. Two hundred thirty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Seventy-two of these studies had sufficient data for meta-analysis. The strength of evidence ranged from high to insufficient. The uses of NAAT only, GDH-positive EIA followed by NAAT, and GDH-positive/toxin-negative EIA followed by NAAT are all recommended as American Society for Microbiology (ASM) best practices for the detection of the C. difficile toxin gene or organism. Meta-analysis of published evidence supports the use of testing algorithms that use NAAT alone or in combination with GDH or GDH plus toxin EIA to detect the presence of C. difficile in adults. There is insufficient evidence to recommend against repeat testing of the sample using NAAT after an initial negative result due to a lack of evidence of harm (i.e., financial, length of stay, or delay of treatment) as specified by the Laboratory Medicine Best Practices (LMBP) systematic review method in making such an assessment. Findings from this systematic review provide clarity to diagnostic testing strategies and highlight gaps, such as low numbers of GDH/toxin/PCR studies, in existing evidence on diagnostic performance, which can be used to guide future clinical research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Scott Parrott
- Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, School of Health Professions, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Nancy E Cornish
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Peggy McNult
- American Society for Microbiology, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Irving Nachamkin
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Thomas J Kirn
- Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, School of Health Professions, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jennifer Dien Bard
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Jonathan C Gullett
- Kaiser Permanente (Southern California Permanente Medical Group) Regional Reference Laboratories, Greater Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Susan Benson
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - April M Bobenchik
- Rhode Island Hospital/Lifespan Academic Medical Center, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | | | - Vickie Baselski
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michel C Atlas
- Kornhauser Health Sciences Library, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | | | - Nancy S Miller
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Peter Gilligan
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - James W Snyder
- Kornhauser Health Sciences Library, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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41
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Use of whole-genome sequencing to guide a Clostridioides difficile diagnostic stewardship program. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2019; 40:804-806. [PMID: 31088580 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2019.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has yielded new insights into the transmission patterns of healthcare facility-onset Clostridioides difficile infection (HO-CDI). WGS results prompted a focused diagnostic stewardship program, which was associated with a significant and sustained decrease in HO-CDI at large, urban hospital.
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42
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Munson E, Rodriguez S, Riederer N, Munson KL, Block D, Land G, Stone R, Villalobos A, Dewey E, Block TK. Outcome of Electronic Order Alert Intervention Relative to Toxigenic Clostridium difficile PCR Analysis and Hospital-Onset C difficile Infection in a Multihospital Health Care System. Am J Clin Pathol 2019; 151:622-627. [PMID: 30989227 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Concern exists regarding overdiagnosis of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) via molecular modalities. We determined effects of a preanalytic order intervention on laboratory and CDI prevention measures in a multihospital system. METHODS Intervals before and following implementation of a CDI electronic order alert (relative to appropriate testing scenario) were assessed for C difficile test volume and positivity rate, hospital-onset CDI frequency, and hospital-onset C difficile standardized infection ratio (SIR). C difficile detection occurred by PCR throughout the study. RESULTS During the first half of 2015, testing volume was 1,578, with 88 hospital-onset CDIs. Following implementation, 18.9% and 56.8% reductions in volume and hospital-onset CDIs were realized, respectively, in the first half of 2017. Regression analysis revealed decreasing trends in PCR volume, positivity rate, hospital-onset CDI frequency, and SIR in larger facilities. CONCLUSIONS Preanalytic considerations affect not only the microbiology laboratory but also hospital infection prevention in the context of CDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Munson
- College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
- Wisconsin Clinical Laboratory Network Technical Advisory Group, Madison
| | | | - Nancy Riederer
- Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Ascension Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | | | - Denise Block
- Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Ascension Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Gayle Land
- Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Ascension Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | - Rosalyn Stone
- Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, Ascension Wisconsin, Milwaukee
| | | | - Erin Dewey
- College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Timothy K Block
- Wisconsin Clinical Laboratory Network Technical Advisory Group, Madison
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43
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Han SH, Yi J, Kim JH, Lee S, Moon HW. Composition of gut microbiota in patients with toxigenic Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile: Comparison between subgroups according to clinical criteria and toxin gene load. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212626. [PMID: 30785932 PMCID: PMC6382146 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Data concerning the human microbiota composition during Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI) using next-generation sequencing are still limited. We aimed to confirm key features indicating tcdB positive patients and compare the microbiota composition between subgroups based on toxin gene load (tcdB gene) and presence of significant diarrhea. Ninety-nine fecal samples from 79 tcdB positive patients and 20 controls were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Chao1 index for alpha diversity were calculated and principal coordinate analysis was performed for beta diversity using Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology (QIIME) pipeline. The mean relative abundance in each group was compared at phylum, family, and genus levels. There were significant alterations in alpha and beta diversity in tcdB positive patients (both colonizer and CDI) compared with those in the control. The mean Chao1 index of tcdB positive patients was significantly lower than the control group (P<0.001), whereas there was no significant difference between tcdB groups and between colonizer and CDI. There were significant differences in microbiota compositions between tcdB positive patients and the control at phylum, family, and genus levels. Several genera such as Phascolarctobacterium, Lachnospira, Butyricimonas, Catenibacterium, Paraprevotella, Odoribacter, and Anaerostipes were not detected in most CDI cases. We identified several changes in the microbiota of CDI that could be further evaluated as predictive markers. Microbiota differences between clinical subgroups of CDI need to be further studied in larger controlled studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Hee Han
- BioCore Co. Ltd., Biotechnology, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Joowon Yi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hoon Kim
- BioCore Co. Ltd., R&D Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - SangWon Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Won Moon
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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44
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Healthcare provider diagnostic testing practices for identification of Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile in children: an Emerging Infections Network survey. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2019; 40:276-280. [PMID: 30767829 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2018.347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize healthcare provider diagnostic testing practices for identifying Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI) and asymptomatic carriage in children. DESIGN Electronic survey. METHODS An 11-question survey was sent by e-mail or facsimile to all pediatric infectious diseases (PID) members of the Infectious Diseases Society of America's Emerging Infections Network (EIN). RESULTS Among 345 eligible respondents who had ever responded to an EIN survey, 196 (57%) responded; 162 of these (83%) were aware of their institutional policies for CDI testing and management. Also, 159 (98%) respondents knew their institution's C. difficile testing method: 99 (62%) utilize NAAT without toxin testing and 60 (38%) utilize toxin testing, either as a single test or a multistep algorithm. Of 153 respondents, 10 (7%) reported that formed stools were tested for C. difficile at their institution, and 76 of 151 (50%) reported that their institution does not restrict C. difficile testing in infants and young children. The frequency of symptom- and age-based testing restrictions did not vary between institutions utilizing NAAT alone compared to those utilizing toxin testing for C. difficile diagnosis. Of 143 respondents, 26 (16%) permit testing of neonatal intensive care unit patients and 12 of 26 (46%) treat CDI with antibiotics in this patient population. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that there are opportunities to improve CDI diagnostic stewardship practices in children, including among hospitals using NAATs alone for CDI diagnosis in children.
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45
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Carter KA, Malani AN. Laxative use and testing for Clostridium difficile in hospitalized adults: An opportunity to improve diagnostic stewardship. Am J Infect Control 2019; 47:170-174. [PMID: 30301657 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is recommended that that only unformed stool from patients with diarrhea be tested for Clostridium difficile infection. We determined the prevalence of and patient characteristics associated with antecedent laxative receipt among hospitalized adults undergoing C difficile testing. METHODS In a case-control study of 5,452 C difficile tests from 5 hospitals in Southeast Michigan, patients who received laxatives (docusate, senna, polyethylene glycol 3350, bisacodyl, and magnesium hydroxide) in the 24 or 48 hours before testing were identified. Logistic regression was performed to identify patient characteristics associated with laxative receipt before testing. RESULTS In 535 (9.8%) and 707 (13%) tests, patients received laxatives in the 24 and 48 hours before testing, respectively. The odds of antecedent laxative receipt were significantly greater for patients residing on a surgical service than a medical service (24 hours odds ratio [OR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1-3.1; 48 hours OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 2.3-3.2), patients residing in an intensive care unit (ICU) than a non-ICU (24 hours OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.0-1.6; 48 hours OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.1-1.6), and patients whose Elixhauser Comorbidity Score was 4 or higher (24 hours OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.7; 48 hours OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.7). CONCLUSIONS Among patients tested for C difficile, antecedent laxative use was common. Improving diagnostic stewardship around C difficile testing, particularly in surgical and ICU patients, is a significant opportunity and priority for quality improvement.
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46
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Doll M, Fleming M, Stevens MP, Bearman G. Clostridioides difficile-Associated Diarrhea: Infection Prevention Unknowns and Evolving Risk Reduction Strategies. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2019; 21:1. [PMID: 30673882 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-019-0659-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW New controversies in the diagnosis and prevention of Clostridiodes difficile are challenging and at times changing infection control practice at many medical centers. RECENT FINDINGS Molecular epidemiologic studies are changing our understanding of C. difficile and its spectrum of disease. C. difficile as a hospital-acquired infection is likely largely overdiagnosed given overly sensitive molecular testing and widespread colonization of ill or debilitated patients. Clostridiodes difficile infection continues to challenge infection prevention programs. Shifts in our understanding of the epidemiology of this organism and its spectrum of clinical presentations are changing the approach to prevention efforts. Nevertheless, cleanliness of the healthcare environment and antimicrobial stewardship remain core risk reduction strategies. Other strategies such as screening and isolation are inciting controversy. The optimal infection prevention strategies for C. difficile remain the subject of intense study and debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Doll
- Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, 1300 E. Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298-0019, USA.
| | - Michele Fleming
- Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, 1300 E. Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298-0019, USA
| | - Michael P Stevens
- Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, 1300 E. Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298-0019, USA
| | - Gonzalo Bearman
- Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, 1300 E. Marshall Street, Richmond, VA, 23298-0019, USA
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47
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Leedahl DD, Personett HA, Nagpal A, Barreto EF. Prevention of Clostridium difficile Infection in Critically Ill Adults. Pharmacotherapy 2019; 39:399-407. [PMID: 30506900 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The incidence and severity of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) remain high across intensive care units in the United States despite national efforts to decrease this escalating health care burden. Most published literature and guidelines address treatment rather than prevention, yet this approach may be too downstream to limit morbidity and mortality from the disease and its complications. Mechanisms to prevent CDI successfully include reducing modifiable risk factors and minimizing horizontal transmission of C. difficile spores between patients and the health care environment. Because CDI prevention is characterized by a bundled approach, it is difficult to quantify the individual impact of any one element; however, a number of patient- and facility-level strategies can be considered for CDI prevention. Robust hygiene strategies, diagnostic and antimicrobial stewardship, and particular prophylaxis maneuvers such as continuation of oral vancomycin or fidaxomicin in the setting of systemic antibiotics have all demonstrated benefit. The preventive roles of deprescribing acid suppressants, routine use of probiotics, or early fecal microbiota transplantation remain unclear. The focus of this review is to summarize the evidence related to primary and secondary CDI prevention in critically ill adults and provide a concise implementation pathway for clinicians and policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David D Leedahl
- Pharmacy Services, Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, North Dakota
| | | | - Avish Nagpal
- Infectious Diseases, Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Erin F Barreto
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.,Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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48
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Pouch SM, Friedman-Moraco RJ. Prevention and Treatment of Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2018; 32:733-748. [PMID: 30146033 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clostridium difficile infection is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients. Risk factors in this population include frequent hospitalizations, receipt of immunosuppressive agents, and intestinal dysbiosis triggered by several factors, including exposure to broad-spectrum antimicrobials. The incidence and potential for significant adverse outcomes among solid organ transplant recipients with C difficile infection highlight the evolving need for strategic C difficile infection risk factor modification and novel approaches to disease management in this patient population. This review focuses on current concepts related to the prevention and treatment of C difficile infection in solid organ transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Pouch
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, WMB #2101, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Rachel J Friedman-Moraco
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, WMB #2101, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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49
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Madden GR, Poulter MD, Sifri CD. Diagnostic stewardship and the 2017 update of the IDSA-SHEA Clinical Practice Guidelines for Clostridium difficile Infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 5:119-125. [PMID: 29990306 DOI: 10.1515/dx-2018-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Diagnostic stewardship is an increasingly recognized means to reduce unnecessary tests and diagnostic errors. As a leading cause of healthcare-associated infection for which accurate laboratory diagnosis remains a challenge, Clostridium difficile offers an ideal opportunity to apply the principles of diagnostic stewardship. The recently updated 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)-Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) Clinical Practice Guidelines for C. difficile infection now recommend separate diagnostic strategies depending on whether an institution has adopted diagnostic stewardship in test decision making. IDSA-SHEA endorsement of diagnostic stewardship for C. difficile highlights the increasing role of diagnostic stewardship in hospitals. In this opinion piece, we introduce the concept of diagnostic stewardship by discussing the new IDSA-SHEA diagnostic recommendations for laboratory diagnosis of C. difficile. We outline recent examples of diagnostic stewardship, challenges to implementation, potential downsides and propose future areas of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Madden
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Melinda D Poulter
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Costi D Sifri
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA.,Office of Hospital Epidemiology/Infection Prevention and Control, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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50
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It Is Not about the Assay: Preanalytical Screening Is the Key to Reducing Clostridioides difficile Infection. J Clin Microbiol 2018; 57:JCM.01553-18. [PMID: 30429255 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01553-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
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