Health care-associated bloodstream infections associated with negative- or positive-pressure or displacement mechanical valve needleless connectors.

Background: Health care-associated, central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections (HA-BSIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Needleless connectors (NCs) are an important component of the intravenous system. NCs initially were introduced to reduce health care worker needlestick injuries, yet some of these NCs may increase HA-BSI risk.

Analysis of an outbreak of Clostridium difficile infection controlled with enhanced infection control measures.

Background: In October 2004, our Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) rate increased (relative risk, 3.51; 95% confidence interval: 2.96-4.