Effective strategies for prevention and control of Gram-negative infections.

Infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Proteus and Acinetobacter have been a major problem in healthcare settings for many years. Overlooked in government targets and unknown to patients, these infections present considerable challenges for effective infection prevention and control. Key strategies for prevention and control focus on contact precautions, the management of invasive devices and maintaining a clean, dry environment to prevent the build-up of environmental reservoirs and cross-infection.