Improving the acceptability of rectal screening for CPE in ICU
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluation of an educational campaign to increase awareness, understanding and acceptability of rectal screening for CPE (carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae) in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting
IRAS ID
220477
Contact name
Kerry Roulston
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Joint Research Office, UCL
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2019/01/58, UCL data protection reference number
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 9 months, 0 days
Research summary
Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest public health threats of modern times. One group of multi-drug resistant bacteria which are a particular cause for concern are the carbapenemase-producing enterobacteriaceae (CPE). These bacteria leave us with limited treatment options and are associated with increased mortality and healthcare costs. Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) are at particular risk of these infections.
As a matter of good infection prevention control (IPC) practice at the Royal Free Hospital, we screen patients on admission to the ICU for the presence of CPE by taking a rectal swab. The purpose of screening is to ensure early appropriate treatment of infections and reduce the risk of transmission to other patients. Patients who are positive for CPE are nursed in a single room with contact precautions (i.e. gown, gloves, dedicated equipment, enhanced cleaning and hand hygiene). It is important that ICU patients are aware of CPE and understand the need for screening to ensure a positive patient experience and an effective IPC Program.
We propose to undertake an educational campaign to increase awareness and acceptability of rectal screening for CPE in an ICU setting. To evaluate the impact of the educational campaign, we will survey patients and visitors, before, during and after the campaign, using questionnaires, interviews and focus groups. This research has the potential to improve the patient experience and will be of value to the wider IPC community as there are currently no studies exploring the impact of an educational campaign on the acceptability of rectal screening for CPE.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/LO/1559
Date of REC Opinion
4 Dec 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion