Zero-risk for CLABSI is achievable – but not without applying distinctively different strategies. Currently, the majority of ICU patients have a short dwell time, <9 days, and with aseptic insertion will remain infection-free for their entire ICU stay. But the minority of patients have a longer dwell time, contribute the majority of CLABSI and require more than aseptic insertion to reduce the risk of infection. Consequently, aggregating short and longer dwell times prevents us from evaluating care.

This study explored the knowledge and understanding of patients and health care workers (HCWs) about multi-resistant organisms (MROs). The patients interviewed had a limited knowledge and understanding of MROs. Knowledge was generally inadequate among HCWs, and this was compounded by the majority of HCWs reporting that explaining a patient’s MRO status is beyond the scope of their knowledge. Policies and educational resources for infection control and prevention should give consideration to confidence-building and clear delineation of responsibility for informing patients of their MRO status.

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are associated with significant morbidity, mortality and costs. The present study highlighted the role of repeated multimodal intervention programs in keeping the CLABSI rates low. This was evidenced by the overall 86.3% reduction in CLABSI rates in the entire study period showing a sustained decline after two intervention programs (first intervention:15.3%; second intervention: 36.9%; and post intervention:74.9%).

Sharps-related injuries continue to be a significant hazard for healthcare workers. This paper examines data from two state-wide studies of nurses working in public and private healthcare facilities in New South Wales. It provides evidence of significant differences in sharps related injuries between these two sectors including what are the higher risk areas of practice, issues relating to reporting of incidents, perceptions of risk, recapping and safety-engineered medical devices.

Clinical waste is costly, is a potential infection risk to patients, staff and handlers, and needs careful management. This study found that a new reusable containment system enabled marked reductions in cost, risk, labour and volumes and received high praise in staff evaluations. The system enables reduced public healthcare spending, less environmental impact, greater safety and regulatory compliance.