Cefepime Induced Neurotoxicity in Patients With or Without a History of Seizures: A Retrospective Matched Cohort Study.

Cefepime is used for the treatment of nosocomial infections and serves as a carbapenem-sparing agent for treating AmpC inducible bacteria. Cefepime induced neurotoxicity (CIN) is a well-documented adverse effect, although data describing the risk of CIN in patients with a history of seizures (HOS) remains limited. The primary and secondary objectives were to compare the rates of CIN in patients with and without HOS and identify risk factors associated with CIN, respectively.

Microbial perils of the tropics: A case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in an immigrant from South America.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an important cause of nonhealing lesions in those recently immigrated to the United States from endemic areas. The lesions can present with various characteristics such as ulcerations, macules, or papules, and may be painful or painless. Several diagnostic modalities, including polymerase chain reaction testing, should be performed to identify the causative species which is important in determining appropriate treatment.

Reengineering the patient's environment: Establishment of a "Red Box" to improve communications with patients on isolation precautions.

Background: Hospitalized patients on isolation precautions are reported to have less frequent health care provider (HCP) visits owing to time required to don and doff personal protective equipment (PPE). Thus, placement on isolation precautions leads to negative patient perception and affects their care.

Methods: A "Red Box" that extended 3 feet beyond the door was marked in 50 patient rooms of a tertiary care hospital and used for patient communication by HCPs without PPE.

Antimicrobial Resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae: Prevalence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications.

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major cause of pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, bacteremia, and otitis media. S. pneumoniae has developed increased resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics.