Table 1 The intervention bundle and differences when compared to the pre-protocol phase
Area of intervention | Pre-protocol | Post-protocol |
|---|---|---|
Head dressing | No formal recommendation | Sterile dressing as long as EVD remains in situ, changed every 72 hours, except for cases where EVD malfunction or hemorrhage is suspected. |
CSF tapping | Daily CSF tapping | Only when all other infection foci have been excluded and there are clinical symptoms that suggest meningitis |
Handling of CSF tapping | No formal recommendation | Sterile gloves, multiple disinfection moments before tapping |
Meningitis treatment strategy | No formal recommendation | Multidisciplinary meetings with infectiologists |
EVD flushing | No formal recommendation | Use of sterile gloves, multiple disinfection moments |