NOSOCOMIAL INFECTIONS (HOSPITAL ACQUIRED INFECTIONS) AT INTENSIVE CARE UNIT IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN LAHORE, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Introduction: There is great risk for patients in intensive care units (ICUs) to acquire Nosocomial infection. We conducted study to determine the frequency of nosocomial infections, prevalence of different pathogens involved in the development of nosocomial infections particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia and associated risk factors in ICU. Settings: Thestudy was conducted at ICU in a tertiary care hospital of Lahore city for 3 months. Materials & Methods: A st th cross-sectional study was conducted for 3 months starting form 1 march 2013 to 30 May, 2013. Non-probability purposive sampling method was used; patients admitted to ICU during study period and meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Results: Out of 72 patients included in the study 12 (17%) patients developed nosocomial infections as evidence by hyperthermia, increased Total Leukocyte Count (TLC) and a positive culture for microbial growth. 41% Bloodstream Infections (BSIs), 17% Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs), Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) each category. Prevalence of ventilator-associated pneumonia was documented as 18%. Device utilization rate and corresponding infections development rate was determined. Conclusions: Nosocomial infections principally blood stream infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia were found to be prevalent among patients in ICU with positive associations with the invasive devices used. Preventive measures like standard precautions and aseptic technique must be adapted every time while having contact with patients and/or exposing them to invasive devices.