Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026
Automated Hospital Room Disinfection Utilizing a Novel Aerosolized Hydrogen Peroxide Microdroplet Disbursing Technology
Published on: February 24, 2026
Nurse-reported infections in a long term care facility
1Family Practice Residency Miami Valley Hospital.
Abstract:
350 nurse-reported infectious episodes over a two year period were studied in a nursing home population. Urinary tract infections were the most commonly reported, followed by respiratory and skin infections. Of these cases cultured, the most common urinary organisms were Proteus and E. Coli; the most common respiratory pathogen was Proteus; and the usual skin offender was Staph Aureus. Cultures were obtained more commonly for urinary than for skin and respiratory infections. Recurrent infections accounted for 38% of urinary, 39% of skin, and 24% of respiratory infections. These results provide further documentation about the problem of infections in the nursing home, and they may be helpful in designing preventive measures in this setting.
Insights
Nursing home infections are common, with urinary tract infections (UTIs) being most frequent. Proteus and E. Coli were common UTI pathogens, highlighting the need for targeted prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Healthcare Epidemiology
Background:
- Nursing homes harbor significant infectious disease burdens.
- Nurse-reported data offers valuable insights into infection epidemiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the types and pathogens of infectious episodes in a nursing home population.
- To identify patterns of infection recurrence and culture practices.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 350 nurse-reported infectious episodes over two years.
- Microbial identification from cultures for urinary, respiratory, and skin infections.
Main Results:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) were most common, followed by respiratory and skin infections.
- Common pathogens included Proteus and E. Coli (urinary), Proteus (respiratory), and Staph Aureus (skin).
- Recurrence rates were substantial, particularly for skin (39%) and urinary (38%) infections.
Conclusions:
- Infectious episodes, especially UTIs, are a significant issue in nursing homes.
- Understanding common pathogens and recurrence is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Current Trends in Nursing I
01:26Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies. Common...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:29Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
01:23Nurses' Legal Responsibilities II
Communication between nurses and patients...
01:29Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management