SBlackburn

Thank you RunningRNBSN; Would you mind telling me what city and state your PICU is in? I am collecting data in order to try to change practice in this institution that sends daily surveillance cultures for their pediatric patients. Also, Jnfrn, I received your last email, but I have no way of responding to it. You can send to [email protected]. Thanks!!!!

janfrn, rnguy25, and scooby484k, Would you mind letting me know (you can do so offline if you wish) what city and state you practice in, which unit, and what type of institution i.e., tertiary, children's medical center, small community hosp, etc. I am collecting data and comparing practices across different institutions. This would really help me out. If you can still provide me with your policies or protocols, that would be excellent! If I can be clear on this: rnguy25 - if infection is not present, you guys culture only when indicated? scooby484k - do you have a protocol for sending CSF samples either daily or on certain days when infection is not present or suspected? Thanks again!

Don't feel you're the only one with outdated policies. I've seen plenty around here! Thanks for your help on this!

thanks rnguy25 and scooby484k! your input is great. i really appreciate you taking the time to write a response. i'm trying to change the practice of daily culturing (in the absence of s/s of infection) and wanting to collect info to help build a case. it seems other hospitals don't practice this way; they only culture if indicated as you have both described.

thanks!

Thanks, janfrn That would help tremendously! I am looking to create a protocol that specifies this particular aspect.

Hello fellow PICU nurses! I'm looking to see what is your current practice with sending EVD cultures. Do you follow a protocol to send them daily, twice a week, only when needed, etc.? Also, who sends them? The nurse or doctor? Or someone else? I am looking to explore this further, but I could use some help from you guys! If you have a protocol you could send that would be even better! Any response to this would be much appreciated.