Nosocomial infections in pediatric hospitals

作者：Gehring S^*; Zepp F

来源：Monatsschrift Kinderheilkunde, 2013, 161(8): 687-696.

DOI：10.1007/s00112-013-2881-z

• Viral antigens
• Gram-negative bacterial infections
• Gram-positive bacterial infections
• Central venous catheters
• Prevention

During recent years, health-care associated infections (HAIs) in pediatric hospitals have evolved into an issue of intense public interest. Unfortunately, the appearance of HAIs is often misinterpreted as infections with multiresistent pathogens. The aim of the present review is to outline the real extent of HAIs in pediatric hospitals and to delineate adequate measures for prevention. %26lt;br%26gt;Only a small percent of HAIs are due to multiresistent bacterial strains. In the majority of HAIs virulent pathogens cause infections in children with high morbidity. The publicly perceived outbreaks are in most events HAIs caused by gram-negative pathogens in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). In contrast, most cases of nosocomial infections in pediatric hospitals are caused by central line-associated infections with gram-positive pathogens and due to transmission of viral pathogens. %26lt;br%26gt;Appropriate hand hygiene remains undoubtedly the main pillar of HAI prevention and should be enforced not only with respect to all health care professionals but also with regard to parents, relatives, and visitors. In addition, pediatric hospitals are in particular need of adequate staffing and room infrastructure allowing the separation of infectious from non-infectious patients. Overcrowding and understaffing is regarded as a key component promoting HAIs. Finally, the prevention of central-line associated blood stream infections (CLABSIs) is achievable through the application of insertion and maintenance bundles focusing on sterile insertion techniques and aseptic catheter handling.

• 出版日期2013-8