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[Multiple nosocomial infections. An incidence study]
S de Juan García1, C González Monte, M Pinazo Murria
1Servicio de Medicina Preventiva, Hospital de Sagunto, Valencia.
Background:
Some studies point out that around 30%-50% of the nosocomial infections (NI) are multiple (MNI) and are found in 21%-30% of the patients with NI. The significance of these data and their potential consequences have led the authors to perform this study.
Patients And Methods:
A longitudinal descriptive study was carried out on the incidence and characteristics of NI (MNI and single nosocomial infection [SNI]) in 26,977 patients admitted to a county hospital from 1991 to 1993.
Results:
NI was detected in 1,246 patients with 31% presenting MNI appearing in 15% of the patients. MNI predominated in males, had a mean age were 5 to 12 years higher than the patients with SNI with a mean hospital stay of between 13-28 days more than the SNI group. The MNI were significantly less frequent in the Urology, Gynecology and Obstetrics Departments and were more frequent in the Intensive Care Unit. The localization of the infection varied significantly among the patients with one or several infections. Bacteremia, pneumonia and soft tissue infections were significantly more frequent in MNI patients.
Conclusions:
Multiple nosocomial infections are frequent and their basic characteristics are significantly different from those of single nosocomial infections. The patients who acquire SNI should be carefully followed to avoid the appearance of MNI.
Insights
Multiple nosocomial infections (MNI) are common, affecting 15% of patients. MNI present differently from single infections, often occurring in males and the ICU, requiring careful patient monitoring to prevent their development.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Hospital-Acquired Infections
Context:
- Nosocomial infections (NI) are a significant concern in healthcare settings.
- Multiple nosocomial infections (MNI) represent a substantial proportion of NI, affecting 21%-30% of patients with NI.
- The distinct characteristics and consequences of MNI warrant focused investigation.
Purpose:
- To determine the incidence and characteristics of MNI compared to single nosocomial infections (SNI).
- To analyze patient demographics, hospital stay duration, and departmental distribution of MNI.
- To identify common infection sites and types associated with MNI.
Summary:
- A longitudinal study of 26,977 patients revealed NI in 1,246, with 31% having MNI (15% of all patients).
- MNI occurred more frequently in males, with higher age, longer hospital stays (13-28 days more), and in the Intensive Care Unit.
- Bacteremia, pneumonia, and soft tissue infections were significantly more common in MNI patients.
Impact:
- MNI are frequent and possess distinct epidemiological and clinical features compared to SNI.
- Findings highlight the need for vigilant monitoring of patients with SNI to prevent MNI development.
- This research informs strategies for managing and preventing complex hospital-acquired infections.