Healthcare personnel and nosocomial transmission of pandemic 2009 influenza.

Knowledge regarding the modes of transmission of pandemic 2009 H1N1 influenza continues to develop, as do recommendations for the prevention of spread within healthcare facilities. The adoption of the most prudent, multifaceted approaches is recommended until there is significant evidence to reduce protective measures. The greatest threat to healthcare personnel and patients appears to be exposure to patients, healthcare personnel, or visitors who have not been recognized as contagious.

Critical care in the United States of America.

There are numerous factors that continue to influence the practice of critical care medicine. This article focuses on issues that have significantly impacted critical care practice during the last decade, such as changing socioeconomic factors, the increasing influence of specialty groups and governmental agencies, and the translation of evidence-based medicine into practice.

Bacterial growth in secretions and on suctioning equipment of orally intubated patients: a pilot study.

Background: Contamination of equipment, colonization of the oropharynx, and microaspiration of secretions are causative factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia. Suctioning and airway management practices may influence the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Objectives: To identify pathogens associated with ventilator-associated pneumonia in oral and endotracheal aspirates and to evaluate bacterial growth on oral and endotracheal suctioning equipment.