These infections, often linked to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, can have serious consequences for patients, ranging from additional complications to increased mortality. How are hospitals fighting these superbugs?
- Nosocomial infections represent a significant risk to patients’ health and can lead to serious complications or even death.
- Many strategies are implemented to combat these infections, including improved hygiene, epidemiological surveillance and the judicious prescription of antibiotics.
- The prevention of nosocomial infections is a major public health issue that requires the mobilization of all stakeholders.
New strategies to combat nosocomial infections are a public health issue. Nosocomial infections are mainly caused by bacteria present in the hospital environment. They can be transmitted by direct contact with an infected patient, through healthcare personnel, or through contaminated medical equipment. There are many risk factors: advanced age, weakened immune system, presence of invasive medical devices (probes, catheters, etc.).
New strategies to combat these super-bacteria
To deal with this scourge, many strategies are being implemented:
• Strengthening hand hygiene : Hand washing remains the simplest and most effective action to prevent the transmission of infections. Health establishments are implementing awareness campaigns and systems to facilitate access to hydroalcoholic solutions.
• Rigorous disinfection of surfaces and medical equipment : Particular attention is paid to the disinfection of frequently touched surfaces (door handles, bedside tables, etc.) and reusable medical equipment. Cleaning and disinfection protocols are put in place and regularly evaluated.
• Isolation of infected patients : Patients carrying resistant bacteria are isolated in individual rooms to limit the spread of infection.
• Reinforced epidemiological surveillance : Close monitoring of the circulation of resistant bacteria in hospitals allows for rapid detection of epidemics and the implementation of appropriate control measures.
• Judicious use of antibiotics : The prescription of antibiotics must be strictly controlled to limit the emergence of resistance. Programs to monitor antibiotic consumption are being put in place.
• Promotion of vaccination : Vaccination against certain infections, such as influenza or pneumococcus, helps reduce the risk of nosocomial infections and limits the pressure on antibiotics.
• Training of healthcare staff : Ongoing training of healthcare staff in good hygiene practices and infection prevention is essential.
• Patient participation : Patients and their families play an important role in preventing nosocomial infections. They should be informed about the measures to take to protect themselves and report any symptoms of infection.
Nosocomial infections: the challenges for the future
The fight against nosocomial infections is a major public health issue. It requires the mobilization of all stakeholders: health professionals, health establishments, health authorities, manufacturers, patients and their loved ones.
New technologies, such as rapid diagnostic tests for infections, could also revolutionize patient care and help combat antibiotic resistance.
The fight against hospital-acquired infections is a long-term battle that requires a global and coordinated approach. By implementing these new strategies, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of infections and preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.