Implementing and evaluating a system of generic infection precautions: body substance isolation.

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1990. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Implementing and evaluating a system of generic infection precautions: body substance isolation.

Am J Infect Control. 1990 Feb;18(1):1-12. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/90196652
Lynch P; Cummings MJ; Roberts PL; Herriott MJ; Yates B; Stamm WE; Department of Medicine, Harboview Medical Center, University of; Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98104.

Abstract: Body substance isolation (BSI) is a system of infection precautions intended to reduce nosocomial transmission of infectious agents among patients and to reduce the risk of transmission of hepatitis B virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and other infectious agents to health care personnel. Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Wash., was the first facility in the United States to implement the BSI system. Between 1984 and 1988 a systematic evaluation of the implementation process was conducted and the effects of BSI on appropriate glove use by hospital personnel and on the incidence of nosocomial colonization and infection by sentinel organisms was measured. Results of the evaluation showed (1) significant increments in knowledge of infection control procedures and practices as measured by comparing written examination responses before and after training sessions, (2) significant increases in appropriate glove use as determined by direct observation of hospital employees for 18 months, and (3) significant reductions in nosocomial colonization and infection caused by sentinel microorganisms during the period from 1984 to 1988.

Keywords: Body Fluids Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.) Communicable Disease Control/*METHODS Comparative Study Cross Infection/*PREVENTION & CONTROL Enterobacteriaceae Infections/EPIDEMIOLOGY Evaluation Studies Gloves, Surgical Handwashing Human Medical Staff, Hospital/EDUCATION Nursing Staff, Hospital/EDUCATION Serratia marcescens United States JOURNAL ARTICLE
900630
M9060059

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Gill Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Quest Diagnostics, Roche and Trimeris, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1990. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 1990. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .