Infection control practices in US burn units

The purpose of this study was to determine infection control procedures most commonly used in burn units in the United States. We used two data collection formats: a brief quantitative survey and a brief qualitative interview. Our response rate was 75% (104/139). We found wide variability in general infection control practices as well as in wound care practices in intensive care units. The majority of units reported having written infection control guidelines specific to the burn unit. Respondents noted challenges that burn injury presents to infection control. A broad range of techniques for preventing device- and procedure-related infection also were provided by respondents. Compliance with hand washing on the part of physicians and ancillary staff remains a major challenge. To improve the quality of infection control and reduce variation in practice, we must continue to monitor the types of practices that are delivered, provide feedback to providers on how they care for their patients, where evidence exists disseminate best practices, and build the evidence base through efficacy trials.