Hospital Acquired infections

A hospital acquired infection, also known as a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), is an infection that is acquired in a hospital or other healthcare facility. These infections can occur in any healthcare setting, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers. HAIs can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms, and they can affect patients, healthcare workers, and visitors.

Complications of hospital acquired infection

HAIs are a serious public health concern because:

• They can lead to prolonged hospital stays
• Cause increased healthcare costs
• Cause death

The risk of acquiring an HAI is higher for patients who are elderly, immunocompromised (having poor immunity or disease), or have underlying medical conditions.

Common types of HAIs include:

• Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs): These infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through a catheter (tube for urination).
• Surgical site infections (SSIs): These infections occur after surgery and can affect the skin, muscles, and internal organs.
• Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs): These infections occur when bacteria enter the bloodstream through a central line (Saline through arteries/veins in the neck), which is a catheter that is inserted into a large vein.
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP): This infection occurs when bacteria enter the lungs through a ventilator, commonly in an ICU setup.

How to prevent hospital acquired infection?

Preventing HAIs is a key priority for healthcare facilities, and many have implemented infection control measures to reduce the risk of transmission. These measures include:

• Hand hygiene: Healthcare workers, patients and relatives should wash their hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Healthcare workers and relatives/caregivers should wear gloves, gowns, masks, and other PPE when caring for patients with infectious diseases.
• Environmental cleaning: Healthcare facilities, particularly hospitals, should regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Patient isolation: Patients with infectious diseases should be isolated to prevent the spread of infection to others.
• Appropriate antibiotic use: Healthcare facilities should use antibiotics judiciously to reduce the risk of antibiotic-resistant infections.

In conclusion, HAIs are a serious public health concern that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Implementing infection control measures can reduce the risk of transmission and prevent the spread of infection to patients, healthcare workers, and visitors.

We at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai have strict infection control measures with isolation beds for patients with infectious diseases. Visit us for a smooth & risk-free recovery from a illness.