In this issue . . .
April 2008 • Vol. 4 No. 4
Manager's Soapbox
Reducing infection rates
By Joan Blanchard, RN, MSS, CNOR, CIC
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' recent changes toward pay-for-performance reimbursement and mandatory reporting of infection rates put a spotlight on infection control. With the increased accountability comes the need for perioperative managers to understand various tools that can help prevent infections.
Bundling could reduce infection rates
While healtcare-associated infections like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureas are making the national news, and as facilities adjust to pay-for-performance care, professionals across the country are seeking to reduce preventable infections. The concept of "bundling" brings a stepwise guideline that might help control infection.
Reports show differing opinions on universal MRSA screening
Two prominent journals in March published separate analyses on the effectiveness of universal MRSA screening. While results may differ, the studies serve as notice that no two facilities are the same, and that careful risk assessment can help determine an infection control program.
New tools to promote ASC quality
The ASC Quality Collaboration has developed quality measures endorsed by the National Quality Forum (NQF) and an implementation guide designed to help facilities implement the measures to standardize quality in ASCs.
Partnership and electronic initiative announcements among highlights from AORN's 55th Congress
An affiliate membership agreement with ANA and a new AORN project to implement an electronic Standardized Perioperative Record (SPR) were among the announcements that highlighted AORN's 55th Congress in Anaheim, Calif., March 30-April 4.
According to a report from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, growth in healthcare spending in the United States is projected to remain steady well into the next decade.
Nevada's ambulatory surgical centers inspected for unsafe practices
A hepatitis C outbreak in southern Nevada prompted Federal investigators to inspect all 50 of the state's ambulatory surgical centers in March.
News briefing for perioperative leaders
A recent study shows that patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest during nights and weekends may have lower survival rates. Also in this issue, new research on Level One trauma center survival rates, the United States and Mexico sign a new memorandum of understanding, and reports show that healthcare quality rates increased only marginally between 1994 and 2005.
ASC news review
Infection and unsafe practices are hot topics in Nevada. As the state amends ASC regulations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention release an updated online fact sheet regarding syringe reuse. Also in this issue, Surgical Care Affiliates agrees to WiFi coverage through Wayport, Inc.
Read more perioperatiave management news.