Nosocomial infection in the Intensive Care Unit at Teaching Hospital Karapitiya, Galle; an audit

Abstract

Background: Nosocomial infections are associated with increased mortality and morbidity in intensive care units (ICU). Studies have shown that surveillance helps to reduce its occurrence. The aim of this audit was to ascertain the incidence and types of nosocomial infection in a selected ICU. Method: All patients who were admitted and stayed for more than 48hrs in the ICU during a period of three months were studied. Infections were identified on clinical parameters and laboratory investigations. Results: Two main nosocomial infections detected were ventilator associated pneumonia (26.4%) and urinary tract infection (UTI) (10.9%). Conclusion: Nosocomial infections accounts for a noteworthy percentage of pneumonia and UTI in the ICU. Key words: Nosocomial infection; ventilator associated pneumonia; blood stream infection; urinary tract infection. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/gmj.v16i2.3746 GMJ 2011; 16(2): 13-16