Using Active Surveillance to Identify Monoclonal Antibody Candidates Among COVID-19-Positive Veterans in the Atlanta VA Health Care System.

Background: Strategies for optimizing identification and outreach to potential candidates for monoclonal antibody (Mab) therapy for COVID-19 are not clear. Using a centralized, active surveillance system, the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System (AVAHCS) infectious disease (ID) team identified candidates for Mab infusion and provided treatment.

Observations: As part of a quality improvement project from December 28, 2020, to August 31, 2021, a clinical team consisting of ID pharmacists and physicians reviewed each outpatient with a positive COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction test daily at the AVAHCS.

14-Year Epidemiologic study of bloodstream infection incidence and resistance in the Veterans Health Administration system, 2009-2022.

Background: Multidrug resistant (PA) represents a serious threat to hospitalized patients. Characterizing the incidence of PA infection and degree of resistance can inform empiric treatment and preventative measures.

Objectives: We sought to describe trends in incidence and resistance characteristics of PA bloodstream infections (BSI) observed within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) system and identify factors contributing to higher observed mortality within this population.

Association of COVID-19 coinfection with increased mortality among patients with bloodstream infection in the Veterans Health Administration system.

Objective: bloodstream infection (PA-BSI) and COVID-19 are independently associated with high mortality. We sought to demonstrate the impact of COVID-19 coinfection on patients with PA-BSI.

Design: Retrospective cohort study.

Evaluation of programmatic changes to an antimicrobial stewardship program with house officer feedback.

Rationale, Aims And Objectives: A collegial relationship between prescribers and antimicrobial stewards, along with an appreciation of the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, is essential for optimal functioning of an antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP). Programmatic adjustments based on feedback may be beneficial to the success of ASPs. The objective of this study is to assess the experience of house officers with the ASP and the effect of programmatic improvements.