Healthcare-associated infections remain one of the most serious problems in the field of healthcare. At the international level, about 15% of hospitalized patients are susceptible to such infections, and in intensive care units, this rate can reach 30%. These infections worsen clinical outcomes, prolong hospitalization, and contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains.
The study analyzed data from 707 patients treated in hospitals in the capital.
The most common forms of HAIs were:
- clinical sepsis;
- ventilator-associated pneumonia.
The authors of the study emphasize: "Although the level of HAIs (2.8%) corresponds to the average indicators for countries with similar resource levels, the extremely low frequency of microbiological studies does not allow for an accurate epidemiological assessment. The prevalence of HAIs may be significantly higher because laboratory studies were conducted only in 0.8% of patients."
The study revealed that the risk of infections increases with:
- vascular catheterization,
- the presence of drains,
- surgical operations,
- stays in the hospital for more than 7 days.
"These data confirm the global trend that invasive procedures are the main factors in the occurrence of nosocomial infections," the authors explained.The structure of hospitalizations in Bishkek indicates a significant burden on obstetric-gynecological, surgical, and pediatric departments, which are traditionally at increased risk for HAIs. The risks are particularly dangerous in neonatology and obstetrics, where infections can have serious consequences.
According to the study, 36.4% of patients received antibacterial therapy, which significantly exceeds the number of confirmed cases of infections. This indicates widespread use of antibiotics without laboratory confirmation and creates conditions for the growth of antibiotic-resistant strains.
The authors of the study emphasize the need for:
- expanding microbiological diagnostics;
- implementing programs for the rational use of antibiotics;
- strengthening the infection control system in medical institutions.
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