Monitoring Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infections in the Neurosurgery ICU Using a Real-Time Surveillance System

Abstract

Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-AB) infections are becoming increasingly common. The Real-Time Nosocomial Infection (NI) Surveillance System (RT-NISS) was used to monitor MDR-AB NI in intensive care units (ICUs) to prevent NI outbreaks. Therefore, the RT-NISS was used in the current study to monitor MDR-AB infections in a neurosurgery ICU. Clinical interventions, including recommended antibiotics, bacterial distribution in the patient analysis, and bed adjustments, were carried out based on the monitoring results. The RT-NISS was also used to monitor clinical data, implement, and provide training on NI control. The RT-NISS detected a potential cluster of XDR-AB when five patients admitted to the neurosurgery ICU were tested positive for AB between 11 and 17 June 2019. Only two infected cases originated in the hospital, and there was no NI outbreak. The hospital Infection Control Department took appropriate measures to prevent cross-infection; specifically, an epidemiologic investigation and environmental assessment were conducted, and NI prevention and outbreak management training was provided. In summary, the RT-NISS enhanced the timeliness and efficacy of NI control and surveillance in a neurosurgery ICU.