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Probiotics for Infection Prevention in Critically Ill and Trauma Patients: A Concise Review
Heather A Vitko1, Jordan J Troxell, Paula R Sherwood
1Department of Acute and Tertiary Care, School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Drs Vitko and Sherwood); UPMC Pinnacle, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania (Mr Troxell); and Lung Innovations Network, P.C., State College, Pennsylvania (Mr Troxell).
Background:
Critically ill trauma patients are at an increased risk for infection, which can increase morbidity and mortality. The use of probiotic preparations for infection prevention is promising, yet the results of their effectiveness are mixed.
Objectives:
To synthesize current research regarding the use of probiotics to prevent and possibly treat infection in the critically ill adult trauma population.
Conclusion:
Upon reviewing the current body of evidence, one cannot definitively conclude that probiotic supplementation in the critically-ill trauma population decreases health care-associated infection rates and improves outcomes, but most published evidence supports their use.
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