Active surveillance for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) carriage

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) poses a significant threat in healthcare settings, necessitating robust infection control measures. To identify the most effective sampling method for CRAB carriage detection, we conducted a comparative analysis between skin sampling using a pre-moistened sponge, rectal swabs, and respiratory specimens. Our study encompassed both acute care and post-acute care hospitals. The results revealed that the skin sponge method, when plated on selective chromogenic media, demonstrated the highest sensitivity, exceeding 90% in both settings. Conversely, the commonly employed methods of rectal swabs and respiratory samples combined to exhibit sensitivity levels below 40%. Based on these findings, we recommend implementing the skin sponge method as the preferred approach for CRAB screening in healthcare facilities. This recommendation aims to optimize infection control strategies and mitigate the spread of CRAB in healthcare settings.