Nosocomial infections in the critically ill

Many patients are likely to develop an infectious disease episode during their hospital stay as a result of their acute pathology, underlying morbidity, and invasive procedures or resulting medical treatment. Nosocomial infections are becoming an increasing problem for the critically ill patient and hospital resources. The incidence of nosocomial infections is high, but rates vary between countries and type of hospital ICUs. Mortality and subsequent markers of morbidity are high with nosocomial infection, although it remains difficult to establish a direct causal link between nosocomial infection and death. Early and regular involvement of specialist microbiological advice is essential in effective treatment and resistance prevention. This article reviews some of the issues regarding nosocomial infections.