GaP nanowire betavoltaic device

A betavoltaic device is reported that directly converts beta energy from a ⁶³Ni radioisotope into electrical energy by impact ionization in a GaP nanowire array. The GaP nanowires are grown in a periodic array by molecular beam epitaxy on silicon using the self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid method. By growing GaP nanowires with large packing fraction and length on the order of the maximum beta range, the nanowires can efficiently capture the betas with high energy conversion efficiency while using inexpensive Si substrates. Monte Carlo simulations predict a betavoltaic efficiency in agreement with experimental results. The nanowire betavoltaic device can be used as a power source for nano-/micro-systems such as mobile electronic devices, implantable medical devices, and wireless sensor networks.

An outbreak of Serratia marcescens in two neonatal intensive care units

Outbreaks of infection in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) due to Serratia marcescens are well recognized. In some outbreaks no point source has been found, whereas in others cross-infection has been associated with contaminated ventilator equipment, disinfectants, hands and breast pumps. We report an outbreak due to S. marcescens that involved two geographically distinct NICUs. The outbreak occurred over a six week period; 17 babies were colonized, 12 at Glasgow Royal Maternity Hospital (GRMH) and five at the Queen Mothers Hospital (QMH). At GRMH three babies developed septicaemia, of whom two died. The outbreak isolates were of the same serotype and phage type and were indistinguishable on the basis of restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. During the outbreak, two babies shown consistently to be negative on screening, were transferred between the two units. In addition, two members of medical staff attended both units. In QMH no means of cross infection was identified. However, in GRMH the outbreak strain of S. marcescens was isolated from a laryngoscope blade and a sample of expressed breast milk.

Multi-centre research surveillance project to reduce infections/phlebitis associated with peripheral vascular catheters

A surveillance project was undertaken on 37 surgical wards by infection control nurses with the aim of reducing phlebitis/infections associated with peripheral vascular catheters, and to identify risk factors. Data on 2934 catheters in situ longer than 24h was collected in two separate surveillance periods and results were fed back after each surveillance period. Four significant risk factors were identified; what the catheters were used for, the duration the catheters were in situ, the surveillance period (the first surveillance period had a higher phlebitis rate than the second) and whether an infusion pump was used. Logistic regression analysis showed that each of these had a significant effect after adjusting for the effects of the other three factors.

Control of an outbreak of respiratory syncytial virus infection in immunocompromised adults

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is increasingly recognized as an important pathogen in immunocompromised adults, particularly those receiving bone marrow transplants, and, given the ease with which it spreads, represents a significant nosocomial problem. We describe an outbreak of RSV infection involving eight patients on a haematology/oncology ward which was controlled by early screening of patients and staff. Positive patients were cohort nursed on a separate ward and basic infection control measures including use of gowns and gloves were enforced. Children under age 12 were denied ward access. All patients with lower respiratory tract infection, and bone marrow transplant recipients with upper respiratory symptoms, were treated with nebulized ribavirin. There were no deaths. We conclude that awareness of the risk of RSV infection in immunocompromised patients coupled with rapid diagnosis and treatment, screening of symptomatic patients and staff, cohort nursing of cases and basic infection control procedures can prevent spread of RSV infection and reduce morbidity.

Is it safe for nurses to make up i.v. infusions?

Expanding their roles is a challenging development for nurses. An example of this is that following training and supervised practice many nurses are deemed competent to make up intravenous (IV) infusions in a ward setting. However, the safety of this practice has to be questioned because there is a possibility of contamination of the infusate from the environment while the infusion is being prepared.

Patient problems and evaluation of patient discharge education after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABGS) patients who have a routine postoperative course are now being discharged as early as the fourth postoperative day. This descriptive and comparative study explored the postoperative problems experienced by CABGS patients after discharge from hospital and evaluated the patient discharge education program. No correlations were found between the length of hospital stay and the following factors: number and type of problems/concerns; whether patients felt ready to leave hospital on the discharge day; whether patients felt they were coping after discharge, and the number of and reasons for readmission to hospital after discharge. Continual review of the patient education program is recommended and further research into the discharge needs of rural patients is required.