Nosocomial Infection Overview

Study Notes

Definition

Nosocomial infection refers to infections acquired in a healthcare setting, emerging between 48 hours and four days after admission.

Causes

Hospitalized patients universally face infection risks due to treatment or surgical procedures.
High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
CDC reports a 6.1% infection rate among children in intensive care, mainly linked to venous catheters and ventilator-associated pneumonia.
Key risk factors for children:
- Parenteral nutrition
- Extended use of antibiotics (over 10 days)
- Invasive devices
- Unsatisfactory postoperative status
- Immune dysfunction
Common risk factors for both adults and children:
- Extended hospital stays
- Severity of underlying illnesses
- Poor nutritional or immune status
- Indwelling catheters
- Inadequate hand hygiene among healthcare workers
- Emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria due to antibiotic overuse
Invasive procedures commonly increasing infection risk include:
- Urinary bladder catheterization
- Intubation or mechanical ventilation
- Gastric drainage tube placement
- Intravenous (IV) medication or transfusion delivery

Symptoms

Fever often serves as the initial indication of infection.
Additional signs may include:
- Rapid breathing
- Mental confusion
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased urine output
- Elevated white blood cell count
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) may cause painful urination and cough difficulties.
Localized infections can manifest as swelling, redness, and tenderness near surgical or open wounds, potentially advancing to severe muscle tissue destruction and sepsis.

Description

This quiz explores the definition, causes, and risk factors associated with nosocomial infections, which are infections acquired during a hospital stay. It highlights particularly vulnerable populations and the timeframe in which these infections typically manifest. Test your knowledge on this important healthcare topic!