OBJECTIVE:
to describe an intervention in an outbreak of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Teresina, Piauí state, Brazil, 2010-2011.
METHODS:
mycological examination was conducted using fingernail fragments and culture antibiogram. NICU Staff (2 nurses, 3 physicians and 6 nursing technicians) testing positive for ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae underwent specific drug-based treatment. Healthcare-associated infection (HCAI) prevention measures such as implementing care protocols and encouraging proper hand washing were adopted.
RESULTS:
notifications of cases of ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae (n=21) decreased after the intervention. The frequency of HCAI due to ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae reduced from 67% in July 2010 to zero in May 2011.
CONCLUSION:
the implementation HCAI prevention actions was shown to be effective in reducing cases of infection related to ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae in the neonatal ICU, contributing to the improvement of epidemiological indicators and quality of care.
Klebsiella pneumoniae; Cross Infection; Epidemiology; Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
