BACKGROUND: Bone marrow transplantation for the treatment of malignancies is on the increase. Unfortunately, there are no well-validated infection control guidelines for this highly susceptible population. METHODS: Literature was reviewed concerning infection risks and interventions to decrease risks for bone marrow transplant recipients. RESULTS: Definitive information was generally lacking. However, basic "common sense" infection control recommendations for bone marrow transplantation were made in the following areas: air ventilation systems, design issues, environmental services, patient care issues, barrier precautions, nosocomial surveillance, and discharge planning. Recommendations must be tailored to each facility or setting. CONCLUSION: We conclude that validation of many of these recommendations is necessary to provide optimum care for bone marrow transplant recipients.
BACKGROUND: Bone marrow transplantation for the treatment of malignancies is on the increase. Unfortunately, there are no well-validated infection control guidelines for this highly susceptible population. METHODS: Literature was reviewed concerning infection risks and interventions to decrease risks for bone marrow transplant recipients. RESULTS: Definitive information was generally lacking. However, basic "common sense" infection control recommendations for bone marrow transplantation were made in the following areas: air ventilation systems, design issues, environmental services, patient care issues, barrier precautions, nosocomial surveillance, and discharge planning. Recommendations must be tailored to each facility or setting. CONCLUSION: We conclude that validation of many of these recommendations is necessary to provide optimum care for bone marrow transplant recipients.