Limited implementation of measures to reduce nosocomial spread of COVID-19 in hip-fracture patients in the North West of England

J Hosp Infect. 2021 Feb:108:90-93. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2020.11.007. Epub 2020 Nov 18.

Abstract

Hip-fracture patients are vulnerable to the outcomes of COVID-19. We performed a cross-sectional survey to determine measures employed to limit nosocomial spread of COVID-19 in 23 orthopaedic trauma departments in the North-West of England. Nineteen (87%) hospitals admitted patients to a ward prior to a negative swab, and only 9 (39%) patients were barrier nursed. Hip-fracture patients were operated in non-COVID-19-free theatres in 21 (91%) hospitals. Regular screening of doctors working in trauma and elective areas for COVID-19 was undertaken in three (13%) and five (22%) hospitals, respectively. Doctors moved freely between trauma and elective areas in 22 (96%) hospitals.

Keywords: COVID-19; Hip fracture; North West England; Nosocomial infection.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / diagnosis
  • COVID-19 / epidemiology
  • COVID-19 / transmission*
  • COVID-19 / virology
  • COVID-19 Testing / statistics & numerical data
  • Cross Infection / prevention & control*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • England / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Hip Fractures / complications*
  • Hip Fractures / mortality
  • Hip Fractures / virology
  • Hospitalization / statistics & numerical data
  • Hospitals / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Infection Control / methods
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / standards
  • SARS-CoV-2 / genetics