Prevention of Infection: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Practice Interventions for Management in Patients With Cancer

Background: Cancer-related infections lead to increases in mortality, antibiotic use, and hospital stays. Other adverse outcomes include dose delays and reductions, which can result in suboptimal treatment outcomes.

Objectives: Effective implementation of risk assessment and evidence-based interventions for the prevention and treatment of infection are essential to improve care and reduce costs related to infections in patients with cancer receiving immunosuppressive therapy.

Methods: The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Putting Evidence Into Practice (PEP) prevention of infection resource have been developed and updated to identify and disseminate the best available scientific evidence.

Findings: Pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions were evaluated, resulting in recommended for practice rating for catheter care bundles, antimicrobial prophylaxis, vaccination for specific populations, and implementation of contact precautions for resistant organisms.