Healthcare-Associated Infection Rates in Türkiye (2014-2023): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) pose a significant challenge in hospital settings worldwide.
• Understanding the epidemiology of HAIs is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the incidence of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) in Turkish hospitals over the past decade (2014-2023).
• To synthesize existing data on HAI rates, focusing on device-associated infections.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
• Keywords included "Türkiye", "healthcare-associated infections" (HAIs), "surgical site infections" (SSIs), "central line-catheter-associated bloodstream infections" (CLABSIs), "catheter-associated urinary tract infections" (CAUTI), and "ventilator-associated pneumonia" (VAP).
• Eight original articles published between 2014 and 2023, reporting on adult patients in Turkish hospitals, were included.

Main Results:

• The incidence of invasive device-associated HAIs was 1.88% in inpatient wards and 4.19% in intensive care units (ICUs).
• Specific rates for device-associated HAIs included CLABSI (1.97%), CAUTI (1.94%), and VAP (6.49%).
• No studies reported overall surgical site infection rates for hospitals.

Conclusions:

• Invasive device-associated HAIs in Türkiye between 2014-2023 were 1.88% in wards and 4.19% in ICUs.
• There is a need for more comprehensive studies on HAI rates, causative agents, and antimicrobial resistance.
• Prioritizing HAI prevention and intervention research is essential for healthcare centers.