抄録
Health care-associated infections (HCAIs) cause considerable morbidity and mortality in pediatric intensive care units (PICU). The objective of this point prevalence study was to assess the burden of HCAIs in the PICUs. The study conducted in 50 PICUs across Turkey. Data on demographics, microbiological findings, and therapeutic interventions and outcomes were collected for all PICU inpatients. A total of 327 patients participated in the study, 122 of whom had one or more HCAI, corresponding to a prevalence of 37%. The most frequently reported site was lower respiratory tract (n=77, 63%). The most frequent pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter spp. and Candida spp. Two hundred and forty-seven patients (75%) were receiving antimicrobial therapy. The most frequently administered antimicrobials were third generation cephalosporins. Hospital type, male gender, PICU stay (>7 days) and mechanical ventilation were independent risk factors for HCAIs. At 4-week follow up, 43 (13%) patients had died, 28 (65%) of whom died from HCAIs. Endotracheal intubation, urinary catheter, male gender and HCAIs were independent risk factors for mortality. This national multicenter study documented the high prevalence of HCAIs in Turkey. In light of the ‘primum non nocere’ principle, the prevention of these infections should be a health-politics priority.
