Genomic Sequencing for HAI Transmission Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose significant challenges due to their ubiquity, severity, and rising antibiotic resistance, leading to substantial economic and human costs, with existing management systems failing to effectively track and control their transmission within clinical environments.
Innovation Solution
The use of genomic sequencing data to generate actionable information for infection control departments, comparing isolate sequences with historical and contemporaneous patient samples to identify transmission paths, and utilizing graphical displays to visualize genomic and clinical data for infection management, such as tree views, timeline displays, and antibiograms, to track commonalities and potential causes of transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional infection management systems are used, then existing infrastructure is maintained, but transmission tracking and control effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces genomic sequencing data as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between traditional infection management systems and effective transmission tracking. By comparing genomic sequences of pathogen isolates from different patients, the system enables precise identification of transmission routes without requiring fundamental overhaul of existing healthcare infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/contact-based transmission tracking methods with genomic-based detection. Instead of relying on physical surveillance or contact tracing, the system uses DNA sequencing and computational analysis to identify transmission pathways, providing more accurate and objective information
2Measurement precision
If genomic sequencing is implemented for all patients, then transmission detection precision is improved, but system complexity and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing genomic sequencing selectively rather than universally. The system sequences genomes of pathogen isolates obtained from patients with suspected or confirmed infections, rather than sequencing all patient samples. This approach achieves sufficient transmission detection precision for clinical decision-making while avoiding the excessive complexity and cost of universal sequencing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the infection management process into distinct stages: traditional clinical diagnostics, targeted genomic sequencing of isolates, computational analysis of sequences, and integration with electronic health records. This segmentation allows genomic tools to be applied only where they provide maximum value, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high detection precision for transmission tracking
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for monitoring and determining antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial treatment using genomic subtype information. Various embodiments utilize molecular epidemiology and next-generation sequencing technologies (NGS) to monitor multi-drug resistant pathogens and provide early insight into emergent microbial threats.