Non-surgical face masks are not PPE, feds insist
“Questions and concerns” about a recent emergency use authorization have prompted the FDA to clarify its guidance about face coverings.
Infection Prevention
Clinical Briefs for Wednesday, April 29
Associations create ‘heat map’ of U.S. eldercare facilities with COVID-19 cases … Certain cancers raise COVID-19 mortality risk threefold … New drug formulation could treat Candida infections … Half of U.S. seniors say medical care disrupted during pandemic: Most expect continued self isolation
Vigilance and an emergency plan may help nursing homes forestall future coronavirus infections
The coronavirus will pose risks for the foreseeable future, but careful planning will make a cluster infection or outbreak less likely, says a leading geriatrician.
Clinical Briefs for Tuesday, April 7
Surgical masks appropriate for most COVID-19 treatment, finds study … Coronavirus is aerosolized through talking, exhalation … Fiber consumption linked to lower breast cancer risk … African Americans more likely to die from coronavirus illness, early data shows
Providers credited for 24% drop in C. diff rates
Falling U.S. infection rates are only seen in healthcare settings and are likely due to proactive measures taken by providers, say researchers.
Providers at risk of COVID-19 exposure offered online safety training: NIH
A virtual safety training program developed with private sector e-learning companies is now accessible on the agency’s website.
Report documents quick spread of new coronavirus through U.S. nursing facilities
At least 72 facilities in 22 states have infections, along with 55 deaths as of Friday.
Providers must guard against negative mental effects of quarantine, researchers say
Lasting repercussions are less likely when patients are given a clear rationale for quarantine, clear information about protocols, and additional supports.
Best practices kept coronavirus cases at zero among hospital employees, study finds
The hospital’s strategy was to step up screening and quarantine, along with infection control measures during the early weeks of the outbreak.
Prevention of common nursing home infections keyed on ADL care, CMS asserts
A new, ready-to-use toolkit shows direct-care providers how ADL care prevents infections of the skin, urinary tract and pneumonia.
