The utility of an algorithm based on procalcitonin monitoring in patients with sepsis.

Objective: The aim of the study was to develop and validate an algorithm based on procalcitonin (PCT) monitoring to predict the prognosis of patients with sepsis.

Design: The design was a retrospective and observational prospective study.

Setting: The study was set in intensive care units (ICUs) in 2 different hospitals in Spain.

Improved empirical antibiotic treatment of sepsis after an educational intervention: the ABISS-Edusepsis study.

Background: Early appropriate antibiotic treatment is essential in sepsis. We aimed to evaluate the impact of a multifaceted educational intervention to improve antibiotic treatment. We hypothesized that the intervention would hasten and improve the appropriateness of empirical antibiotic administration, favor de-escalation, and decrease mortality.

Autochthonous Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever in Spain.

Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a widely distributed, viral, tickborne disease. In Europe, cases have been reported only in the southeastern part of the continent. We report two autochthonous cases in Spain.

Poor adherence to guidelines for preventing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI): results of a worldwide survey.

Background: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are a cause of increased morbidity and mortality, and are largely preventable. We documented attitudes and practices in intensive care units (ICUs) in 2015 in order to assess compliance with CLABSI prevention guidelines.

Methods: Between June and October 2015, an online questionnaire was made available to medical doctors and nurses working in ICUs worldwide.

Prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia in intensive care units: an international online survey.

Background: On average 7% of patients admitted to intensive-care units (ICUs) suffer from a potentially preventable ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Our objective was to survey attitudes and practices of ICUs doctors in the field of VAP prevention.

Methods: A questionnaire was made available online in 6 languages from April, 1st to September 1st, 2012 and disseminated through international and national ICU societies.