Premier

Bloodstream infection rates at nearly zero for three years

Updated report Ninety Michigan intensive care units (ICUs) reported the reduced rates of catheter-related bloodstream infections achieved in an initial 18-month study were sustained for an additional 18 months. The mean and median rates of catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) decreased from 7.7 and 2.7 percent at baseline to 1.3 and 0 percent at 16-18 months, and to 1.1 and 0 at the 34-36 month post-implementation period, representing a greater than 60 percent reduction in infection rates from baseline sustained at the end of the 36-month period. Full story

Baxter to recall COLLEAGUE infusion pumps

On May 3, 2010, Baxter International announced that it will recall all COLLEAGUE infusion pumps from the U.S. market as part of an existing 2006 consent decree with the Food and Drug Administration. Baxter noted in its press release that it will work with the FDA to ensure the recall process provides customers appropriate alternatives for supporting patient needs, including an offer to exchange COLLEAGUE pumps for Baxter's Sigma SPECTRUM. Full story

Methods to detect adverse events are unreliable; hospital incident reports miss 93 percent: OIG study

Shortcomings in current screening methods for adverse events have implications for Medicare payments and federal initiatives to monitor them, according to a study by the Office of Inspector General (OIG); the study found that present on admission codes and incident reporting systems are missing the majority of events. Full story

Lab errors - Call for more automation to prevent mislabeling, misidentification and related harm to patients

Mislabeling of clinical laboratory and pathology specimens results in repeat diagnostic procedures and delayed or unnecessary surgical procedure. Use of electronic patient identifiers is one key prevention strategy. Full story

CDC updates H1N1 infection control guidance and reports flu vaccination rate the highest this season

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is updating the "Interim Guidance on Infection Control Measures for 2009 H1N1 Influenza in Healthcare Settings, Including Protection of Healthcare Personnel," noting the availability of an effective vaccine and experience with the virus. In a separate report, the CDC reported higher flu vaccination rates this season among healthcare workers than ever before.
Full story

Advocacy

Through its comprehensive efforts to influence the outcome of legislative and regulatory initiatives that further the interests of alliance owners and partners, Premier Advocacy, the Washington, D.C.-based arm of Premier, Inc., strives to create an environment most conducive to integrated health systems' delivery of high-quality, cost-effective care. As reflected in the programs and services it provides, Premier Advocacy is owner-driven, grassroots-oriented, and value-based.
Advocacy Web site