Infection Control

Microbial-binding Woundcare A Strategy to Lift Bioburden

Wounds can be a source of infection by allowing unrestricted entry of microorganisms into the body, including antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. The use of wound dressings that irreversibly bind and remove microbes using their natural hydrophobic properties minimises cell destruction and the resulting release of damaging endotoxins and offers a novel approach that supports antimicrobial stewardship strategies.

Modern Medicine – Issue 5 2021

Procalcitonin Biomarker Improves Antibiotic Stewardship

Antimicrobial resistance is a global health threat. Antimicrobial stewardship programmes may be defined as “a coherent set of actions which promote using antimicrobials responsibly.” One such potential action is to implement procalcitonin (PCT) as a clinical decision aid to improve antibiotic use. PCT is a biomarker that increases in response to bacterial rather than viral stimuli. Moreover, it rises rapidly after inflammatory stimuli (4–6h) and has a short half-life of 24h.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2021

Complementary Management of Throat Infections Cuts Antibiotic Use

Sore throat and pharyngitis represent more than 2% and 5% of all outpatient primary care visits for adult and paediatric populations, respectively. Preventing complications requires antimicrobial treatment, but growing antibiotic resistance has placed emphasis on minimising antibiotic use. For centuries, the therapeutic properties of various spices and herbal plants have been used to treat several viral and bacterial infections. Natural health remedies and supplements are undergoing extensive study for their potential to reduce antibiotic resistance and to offer alternative natural antimicrobial agents with fewer adverse effects on the human body.

Modern Medicine – Issue 2 2021

Clarithromycin for Soft Tissue Infections

Clarithromycin has been a mainstay treatment for soft tissue infections and certain wounds. Being able to disrupt the common processes of protein synthesis in a wide range of bacteria gives it a broad spectrum effect.

Modern Medicine – Issue 2 2021

To Stop HAIs, Wipe Out Surface Bacteria

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are associated with increased morbidity, mortality and healthcare costs, and reducing their burden has become a clinical priority. Traditionally, HAIs have been associated with hospital care; however, increasingly it is recognised that they also occur within GP surgeries, care homes, mental health facilities, ambulances and people’s own homes.

Modern Medicine – Issue 6 2019

Hand Hygiene – The Cornerstone of Combatting Infections

Medical advances have brought lifesaving care to patients in need, yet many of these advances come with a risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
These unanticipated infections that develop during the course of medical or surgical treatment may result in significant patient morbidity and mortality, prolong the duration of hospital stays and necessitate additional diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, which generate added costs.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2019