KDHE New Resources on Health Care-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance
(March 6, 2026) – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has added several new resources to its Health Care-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance webpage, Tools & Resources | KDHE, KS.
This comprehensive page includes:
- KDHE Infection Prevention Orientation Manual;
- Observation Tools for Hand Hygiene Adherence Monitoring;
- Multidrug-Resistant Organisms FAQ sheets;
- Resource Materials and Risk Assessment Tools; and
- Script Pads for Viral Illnesses.
New Resource Highlight
A new document, C. auris Colonization Collecting, Packaging, and Shipping (PDF), provides detailed guidance on how to properly collect, package and ship specimens to KDHE laboratories. These FAQs are designed to ensure specimens are handled correctly and efficiently for laboratory testing.
Viral Illness Script Pads
The script pads are designed to assist providers and pharmacists during discussions with patients and family members. They help clarify:
- Why antibiotics are not prescribed for viral illnesses.
- The risks of unnecessary antibiotic use.
- Symptom relief strategies patients can use at home.
These tools promote antimicrobial stewardship while helping patients better understand their care.
If you haven't explored the updated page, it's a valuable resource for infection prevention and antimicrobial resistance support across health care settings.
--Terry Siek