Adaptation and Validation of a Risk Assessment Tool for Candidozyma auris in a Saudi Arabian Hospital

Objective This study aimed to employ a risk assessment tool adapted from a validated MRSA risk assessment tool to identify individuals at substantial risk of C. auris within the hospital setting. Method This study 'adapted' the MRSA risk assessment tool to analyze individual patient data (IPDs) for identifying and quantifying C. auris infection risk. The variables included admission history, comorbidities, multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) history, wounds/devices, surgeries, and antimicrobial use. The screening tool was deployed through a PowerForm in selected nursing units on all newly admitted patients, numbering 68,031, during the study period. Multivariate logistic regression and subgroup analyses were employed to address potential biases and ensure the internal validity of the study. Results Notably, 9% of the patients had identified risk factors such as septicemia, CKD, DM, or chronic lung disease. Additionally, 7% reported a history of admission to non-KSA hospitals, and 14% had contact with MDROs or ASCs. Conclusions The results indicate the tool’s utility in identifying high-risk individuals and guiding targeted infection control measures and provide a foundation for the development of targeted surveillance and preventive measures in healthcare settings.