Sjukhusförvärvade

Sjukhusförvärvade, known in English as healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), are infections that patients acquire during the course of receiving medical treatment for other conditions. These infections can occur in any healthcare setting, including hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. They are a significant concern for patient safety and can lead to prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, and even mortality.

The most common types of sjukhusförvärvade include urinary tract infections (often associated with catheters), surgical site infections, pneumonia, and bloodstream infections. These infections are typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that are present in the healthcare environment. Factors that increase a patient's risk include a weakened immune system, invasive medical devices, prolonged hospital stays, and certain medical procedures.

Preventing sjukhusförvärvade is a critical focus in healthcare. Key strategies involve rigorous hand hygiene practices by healthcare professionals, proper sterilization and disinfection of equipment, adherence to infection control protocols, and judicious use of antibiotics to prevent the development of resistant organisms. Surveillance systems are also in place to monitor the incidence of these infections and identify areas for improvement in prevention efforts. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to minimize the impact of sjukhusförvärvade on patient outcomes.