Clostridioides difficile Infection in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients: Comparisons of Epidemiology, Testing, and Treatment from 2013 to 2019.

Objectives: To compare the incidence, epidemiology, testing patterns, treatment, and outcomes of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) among hospitalized pediatric patients from 2013 to 2019.

Study Design: The Pediatric Health Information System database was queried for patient admissions (age 0-17 years) with International Classification of Diseases, 9th and 10th edition, codes for diagnoses of CDI with a billing code for a CDI-related antibiotic treatment.

Results: We identified 17 142 pediatric patients, representing 23 052 admissions, with CDI.

The power of feedback: Implementing a comprehensive hand hygiene observer program.

Background: Hand hygiene (HH) is a fundamental component of infection prevention within all healthcare settings. We implemented a hospital-wide program built on overt HH observation, real-time feedback, and thematic analysis of HH misses.

Methods: A robust observer training program was established to include foundational training in the WHO's My Five Moments of HH.

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Healthcare-Associated Viral Infections in Children.

Background: Healthcare-associated viral infections (HA-VIs) are common in hospitalized children and are increasingly recognized as a cause of preventable harm; however, the epidemiology and modifiable risk factors for pediatric HA-VIs are poorly understood.

Methods: We performed a retrospective case-control study to identify risk factors and outcomes associated with pediatric HA-VIs at a quaternary care children's hospital. HA-VI surveillance was performed hospital-wide using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definitions.

The utility of paired upper and lower respiratory tract sampling for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing in patients with artificial airways.

Early in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the CDC recommended collection of a lower respiratory tract (LRT) specimen for severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing in addition to the routinely recommended upper respiratory tract (URT) testing in mechanically ventilated patients. Significant operational challenges were noted at our institution using this approach. In this report, we describe our experience with routine collection of paired URT and LRT sample testing.

Implementation of a Mandatory Influenza Vaccine Policy: A 10-Year Experience.

Background: Influenza vaccination of healthcare workers (HCWs) has been recommended for more than 30 years. In 2009, HCWs were designated as a priority group by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Current HCW vaccination rates are 78% across all settings and reach approximately 92% among those employed in hospital settings.