Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in Australian hospitals: outcome of point-prevalence screening in high-risk wards

Authors:

• Brett, J.A.
• Johnson, S.A.
• Cameron, D.R.M.
• Lane, C.R.
• Easton, M.
• van Diemen, A.
• Sutton, B.
• Bull, A.L.
• Richards, M.J.
• Worth, L.J.

Details:

Journal of Hospital Infection, Volume 101, Issue 2, 2019-02-28

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Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) infections are increasingly reported in Australian hospitals, but prevalence is unknown. In 2016, Victorian hospitals conducted CPE point-prevalence surveys in high-risk wards (intensive care, haematology, transplant). Forty-three hospitals performed 134 surveys, with 1839/2342 (79%) high-risk patients screened. Twenty-four surveys were also performed in other wards. Inability to obtain patient consent was the leading reason for non-participation. In high-risk wards, no CPE cases were detected; three cases were identified in other wards. Since there is low prevalence in high-risk wards, continuous screening is not recommended. Targeted screening may be enhanced by review of patient consent processes.