Implementation of European standards of care for cystic fibrosis--control and treatment of infection.

BACKGROUND: Several guidelines on infection control and treatment of infection exist for cystic fibrosis (CF) caregivers, although the extent of implementation is variable.

METHODS: Adherence to European Consensus Guidelines for CF was studied by sending surveys to named healthcare professionals in 487 European CF centres/units. Qualitative data analysis was performed.

RESULTS: A total of 177/547 (32%) surveys were returned. Infection control policies were implemented by most (77%) respondents. Separation of patients with Burkholderia cepacia was more common in adults (95%) than children (9%), and was implemented by 53% of respondents for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Nebulised colistin plus oral ciprofloxacin was the most common (43%) therapy for P. aeruginosa infection. First infections of P. aeruginosa were usually treated with inhaled tobramycin; 41% of repondents did not intervene until lung function deteriorated. Most exacerbations were treated for less than the recommended period.

CONCLUSIONS: European Consensus Guidelines are widely adhered to. Areas for improvement include: initiating therapy for exacerbations early, separating infected patients and optimising duration of antibiotic therapy.