Epidemiology of Nosocomial Infections in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Beni-Suef Hospital and their Control strategies

Abstract

Nosocomial infections are more prevalent in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) than in other hospital departments. This study aimed to elucidate the epidemiology and characteristics of ICU-acquired infections, with a focus on the impact of various risk factors. This study retrospectively analyzed data from 174 ICU patients admitted between December 2022 and November 2023 in Beni Suef Hospital, Beni Suef, Egypt. The primary focus was on the epidemiology of bacterial infections, including their incidence, causative organisms, and infection sites. Additionally, the study aimed to identify risk factors associated with ICU-acquired infections. Out of 174 patients, 98 (56.3%) acquired nosocomial infections in the ICU. Acinetobacter baumannii was the primary causative agent (19.0%), with urinary tract infections being the most common type (29.0%). Patients with nosocomial infections experienced longer mechanical ventilation and ICU stays. However, mortality rates did not significantly differ between infected and non-infected patients. Independent risk factors identified through multivariate analyses included intubation, urinary catheterization, and mechanical ventilation each lasting over 7 days, as well as an ICU stay exceeding 7 days. This study highlights a substantial occurrence of nosocomial infections in the ICU and identifies specific risk factors associated with their acquisition in this critical care setting.