Variation in the rate of healthcare-associated infections in neonates

Abstract

Introduction: Infections associated with health care in the neonate are related to increased morbidity, mortality, and prolonged hospital stay. The San Juan de Dios National Hospital in San Miguel, reported from 2008 to 2013 an infection rate of 3.1%, being necessary to improve preventive measures. This study aimed to determine the variation in the infection rate in neonates treated with improved preventive measures, compared to conventional preventive measures.
Methodology: A prospective intervention study was carried out in the intensive care unit and neonatal service during 2014 to 2019. Before and after the annual rate was evaluated, identifying the cases of surveillance for HAI in admitted neonates. The intervention consisted of improving preventive measures aimed at the user, health personnel and the environment.
Results: The average rate of IAAS in both services presented a variation, reducing from 3.1% from 2008 to 2013 to 1.6% (p <0.3) from 2014 to 2019.
Conclusions: actions to improve the prevention of HAI, planned taking into account its causes and in coordination with decision makers, effectively affect its incidence.