Final answer:
The nurse-manager noticing an increase in nosocomial infections should investigate the causes, reinforce existing protocols, and potentially isolate patients while ensuring proper environmental cleaning. Laboratory testing to identify specific pathogens is also crucial. These steps will help improve patient safety and prevent further infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse-manager in a pediatric intensive care unit noticing an increase in nosocomial infections should implement an immediate investigation to determine the cause of these infections. This would involve reviewing and reinforcing infection control protocols with all staff members, such as strict hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment, and thorough disinfection procedures. Infection control protocols are critical in preventing the spread of hospital-acquired infections such as MRSA and infections following procedures like the insertion of central intravenous lines. The considered nurse-manager might also look into environmental cleaning and maintenance practices to ensure that the facility itself is not contributing to the spread of infections. Moreover, the nurse-manager should consider isolating infected patients, as in the case of Marisa, to prevent cross-contamination to other patients.
If the infections are related to specific procedures, as with central line insertions, the nurse-manager should review the protocol adherence levels among healthcare providers and implement strategies, such as checklists, that have proven to reduce errors and infection rates. In addition, laboratories should conduct cultures and other appropriate tests to identify the specific organisms responsible for the infections. These results will help refine antibiotic therapy and identify any need for more targeted control measures.
Overall, these steps are essential to ensure patient safety, reduce the risk of infection spread, and maintain the credibility of the healthcare facility.