Measures to reduce infection in the neonatal intensive care unit

An increasing incidence of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia was identified by Stirling Royal Infirmary neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In order to work towards the Scottish Patient Safety Programme (SPSP) targets, current policies regarding obtaining blood cultures or siting intravenous catheters were reviewed and changes implemented. Hand hygiene for staff and parents was further promoted. This culminated in the NICU reaching the SPSP targets with on-going success.