UPMC Presbyterian researchers identified 10 patients with the same hospital-acquired infection using genetic sequencing. They traced the source to an interventional radiology lab with improper sterilization procedures, partly due to a faulty training video. This discovery led to immediate action to improve patient safety.

Their work, highlighted in the documentary “The Pitch: Patient Safety’s Next Generation,” emphasizes innovative technology solutions. One standout is the Enhanced Detection System for Healthcare-Associated Transmission (EDS-HAT), developed by Dr. Lee Harrison and Dr. Artur Dubrawski at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, respectively. EDS-HAT detected 99 outbreaks and identified transmission routes in 65% of cases during a trial at UPMC, surpassing traditional methods.

The documentary, funded by the Jewish Healthcare Foundation, showcases various technology-driven initiatives across the health care sector. Despite ongoing efforts to address medical errors, they remain prevalent, emphasizing the need for continued innovation in patient safety. The documentary will premier at the Cleveland International Film Festival this week.

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