Illustration(s) pertain to the topic addressed in this publication, not the specific research or data presented in the publication

The emergence of decreased susceptibility to vancomycin in Staphylococcus epidermidis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) are the major cause of nosocomial bloodstream infection. Emergence of vancomycin resistance among CNS is a serious public health concern, because CNS usually are multidrug-resistant, and glycopeptide antibiotics, among which only vancomycin is available in the United States, are the only remaining effective therapy.… Read more

Illustration(s) pertain to the topic addressed in this publication, not the specific research or data presented in the publication

The prevalence of colonization with vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus at a Veterans’ Affairs institution

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To study vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) prevalence, risk factors, and clustering among hospital inpatients.

DESIGN: Rectal-swab prevalence culture survey conducted from February 5 to March 22, 1996.

SETTING: The Veterans’ Affairs Medical Center, Atlanta, Georgia.

PATIENTS: Hospital (medical and surgical) inpatients.… Read more

Illustration(s) pertain to the topic addressed in this publication, not the specific research or data presented in the publication

Surgical-site complications associated with a morphine nerve paste used for postoperative pain control after laminectomy

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors that might explain a sudden increase in the rate of surgical-site complications following laminectomy.

DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study.

PATIENTS AND SETTING: Patients who underwent laminectomy at a 120-bed hospital from August 1 through October 15, 1996 (the epidemic period).… Read more