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[Intensive therapy units--the links in the risk for the development and spread of hospital infections]
Abstract:
An epidemiological study on the wide spreading of nosocomial infections among patients admitted to intensive care units in Bulgaria is carried out, covering the period 1982 through 1996. The proportion of nosocomial infections registered in the aforementioned wards accounts for 4.66 +/- 0.33 per cent of the overall in patient infectious pathology. Eight per cent of the patients discharged from intensive care units develop infections originating in hospitals. The predominant nosological entities recorded include pulmonary infections, operative wound suppurations and urinary system infections. More than 15 microorganisms, causing agents of infectious processes, are isolated with E. coli ranking first, followed by Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, etc. The partial registration of nosocomial infection cases in the various intensive care units interferes greatly with the practical implementation of updated and adequate measures for prophylaxis and struggle against the infections. Thus, conditions are created promoting prolongation and rising cost of the inpatient treatment, continuous disability, premature death and reduced efficiency of the medical cares delivered.
Insights
Nosocomial infections in Bulgarian intensive care units (ICUs) affected 4.66% of patients between 1982-1996. Inadequate registration hinders infection control, increasing treatment costs and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Context:
- Nosocomial infections pose a significant threat to patient safety in intensive care units (ICUs).
- Bulgaria experienced a notable prevalence of hospital-acquired infections between 1982 and 1996.
- Data collection challenges impacted infection control strategies.
Purpose:
- To conduct an epidemiological study on the prevalence of nosocomial infections in Bulgarian ICUs.
- To identify common types of hospital-acquired infections and causative microorganisms.
- To assess the impact of incomplete data on infection control efforts.
Summary:
- This study analyzed nosocomial infections in Bulgarian ICUs from 1982-1996, finding a prevalence of 4.66% of overall infectious pathology.
- Pulmonary, surgical wound, and urinary tract infections were most common, with E. coli, Staphylococcus spp., and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as primary pathogens.
- Eight percent of discharged ICU patients acquired infections during hospitalization.
Impact:
- Incomplete registration of nosocomial infections impedes effective prophylaxis and control measures.
- Hospital-acquired infections lead to prolonged treatment, increased costs, disability, and mortality.
- Improved surveillance is crucial for enhancing patient care and reducing the burden of infectious diseases.
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