Update on Nosocomial Infections
Author Information
Author(s): Robert A. Weinstein
Primary Institution: Cook County Hospital & Rush Medical College
Hypothesis
What are the emerging trends and challenges in nosocomial infections?
Conclusion
Nosocomial infections remain a significant challenge in hospitals, with increasing rates of antibiotic resistance and a need for improved infection control measures.
Supporting Evidence
- Nosocomial infections cost $4.5 billion and contributed to more than 88,000 deaths in 1995.
- The nosocomial infection rate has remained stable at approximately five to six infections per 100 admissions.
- Intensive care unit patients have infection rates approximately three times higher than other hospital areas.
Takeaway
Hospitals have a lot of infections that people get while they are being treated, and these infections are getting harder to treat because the germs are becoming resistant to medicines.
Methodology
Analysis of nosocomial infection rates and trends based on data from the National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance system.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting and surveillance methods.
Limitations
The data is based on a nonrandom sample of hospitals, which may not represent all hospitals in the U.S.
Participant Demographics
Patients in hospitals, particularly those in intensive care units, including both adults and children.
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