Healthcare Associated Infections

Question 1

What is the definition of a healthcare associated infection?

Answer 1

Any infection that has an onset of at least 48 hours since admission to the healthcare institute.

Question 2

What are the common HAIs of the GI system? How are they transmitted? What are some predisposing factors? How are they treated?

Answer 2

Clostridium difficile is a common HAI of the GI system. Patients are particularly at risk if they are on abx which disturb the existing flora of the gut. e.g. 3 Cs (clindamycin, cephalosporins, ciprofloxacin).

They are treated with oral metronidazole

Question 3

What are the common HAIs of the urinary system? How are they transmitted? How are they treated?

Answer 3

E. coli (extended spectrum beta lactamase resistance) is a common UTI in the healthcare context. Patients with catheters are particularly at risk.

Question 4

Name some common HAI of the blood

Answer 4

MRSA, coagulase negative staphylococcus, E. coli

Question 5

Name some common HAIs of surgical sites

Answer 5

MRSA, coagulase negative staphylococcus

Question 6

What is the epidemiology surrounding HAIs?

Answer 6

They impact around 8% of patients (highest in critical care) and the most common type is a hospital acquired pneumonia