Related Experiment Videos

[Nosocomial infection caused by multiresistant Staphylococci in a neonatal and pediatric intensive care unit]

P Tuo1, G Montobbio, R Vallarino

  • 1Unità di Terapia Intensiva Neonatale e Pediatrica-Istituto G. Gaslini di Genova, Italia.

Insights

Nosocomial infections in paediatric intensive care units (ICUs) significantly increased between 1987-1988 and 1992, particularly in neonates. This rise was driven by multiresistant Staphylococcus haemolyticus and new gram-negative germs.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Paediatric Critical Care

Context:

  • A paediatric intensive care unit (ICU) population was studied over two periods (1987-1988 and 1992).
  • Both study periods involved paediatric patients with similar high-risk factors for nosocomial infections.
  • High-risk factors included mechanical ventilation, intubation, and surgical procedures.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate changes in colonization and ICU-specific nosocomial infection incidence.
  • To assess the increase in infections caused by multiresistant Staphylococci.
  • To identify the emergence of new multiresistant pathogens.

Summary:

  • Colonization rates remained stable, but ICU-specific nosocomial infections significantly increased from 4.9% to 10.3% (p > 0.0014).
  • The neonatal population experienced a disproportionate rise in infections, from 7% to 18.9% (p > 0.00001).
  • Infections caused by multiresistant Staphylococcus haemolyticus, showing resistance to teicoplanin, significantly increased, alongside the presence of multiresistant gram-negative germs.

Impact:

  • Highlights a significant increase in paediatric ICU nosocomial infections, especially in neonates.
  • Identifies specific pathogens, including teicoplanin-resistant Staphylococcus haemolyticus, contributing to this rise.
  • Underscores the emergence of new multiresistant gram-negative organisms, posing a growing threat in paediatric critical care settings.

Related Concept Videos