Rapid diagnostics for bloodstream infections: A primer for infection preventionists

Am J Infect Control. 2018 Sep;46(9):1060-1068. doi: 10.1016/j.ajic.2018.02.022. Epub 2018 Apr 13.

Abstract

Accurate and rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing with pathogen identification in bloodstream infections is critical to life results for early sepsis intervention. Advancements in rapid diagnostics have shortened the time to results from days to hours and have had positive effects on clinical outcomes and on efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance when paired with robust antimicrobial stewardship programs. This article provides infection preventionists with a working knowledge of available rapid diagnostics for bloodstream infections.

Keywords: Antimicrobial stewardship; Antimicrobial susceptibility testing; Bloodstream infections; Rapid diagnostics; Rapid molecular diagnostics.

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Microbiological Techniques / methods*
  • Sepsis / diagnosis*
  • Sepsis / drug therapy
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents