Strategy to Prevent Transmission of Multidrug-resistant Gram-negative Organisms in ICU - Evaluation of Effect of Active Surveillance Test

1. Objective of study The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the active surveillance and preemptive isolation of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria in the intensive care unit affected the reduction of the rate of acquisition of multidrug- resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDRGNB).
2. Background Treatment option for MDRGNB (Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa, Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii, Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae) is limited. Development of infection due to MDRGNB is common in ICU. Strategy to prevent transmission of MDRGNB is needed, and there is two approaches; First, antimicrobial stewardship program, and second, infection control strategy.The investigators aimed to figure out the role of active surveillance test and preemptive isolation of MDRGNB in reduction of acquisition rate of MDRGNB.
3. Methods Pragmatic cluster randomized, crossover, controlled trial During first period (6 months), intervention group (randomized 3 ICUs) perform daily chlorhexidine bathing, active surveillance test and preemptive isolation and contact precaution. Control group (randomized 3 ICUs) perform standard precaution with daily chlorhexidine bathing, and start contact precaution when clinical isolates reveals MDRGNB.

After 1 month washout period, intervention group and control group cross over for next 6 months.