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[Epidemiology of Hospital-acquired infections in surgery (author's transl)]
Abstract:
The incidence of hospital-acquired infections in surgery fluctuates between 1.5 and 29%, the average infection is 5%. The most frequent hospital infections are: urinary tract infections, wound infections, respiratory tract infections, sepsis and infections of the skin. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are most commonly isolated from the nosocomial infections. Hospital infections in surgery are of endogenous origin, i.e. from the organisms of the body itself (e. g. wound infections after intestinal interventions) or exogenous from direct or indrect contact. The most frequent route of transmission is by hands. Almost half of all hospital-acquired infections have their origin in surgery. Standards of prevention of hospital-acquired infections in surgery departments are described.
Insights
Hospital-acquired infections in surgery average 5%, with significant variation. Prevention standards are crucial, as nearly half of these infections originate from surgical procedures.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Infections
- Hospital Epidemiology
- Infection Prevention
Background:
- Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in surgical settings present a significant challenge, with incidence rates ranging widely.
- Common HAIs include urinary tract, wound, respiratory, and skin infections, alongside sepsis.
- Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are frequently identified pathogens in nosocomial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the incidence and common types of hospital-acquired infections in surgical patients.
- To identify the primary sources and transmission routes of surgical site infections.
- To describe established standards for preventing HAIs in surgical departments.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on hospital-acquired infections in surgical contexts.
- Analysis of common pathogens and infection origins (endogenous vs. exogenous).
- Description of established infection control and prevention protocols.
Main Results:
- The incidence of HAIs in surgery varies between 1.5% and 29%, with an average of 5%.
- Surgical procedures account for nearly half of all hospital-acquired infections.
- Hand contact is identified as the most frequent transmission route for HAIs.
Conclusions:
- Hospital-acquired infections are a substantial concern in surgical care, necessitating stringent preventive measures.
- Understanding infection origins and transmission pathways is key to effective control.
- Adherence to prevention standards is vital for reducing the burden of HAIs in surgical departments.