Healthcare-Associated Infections Outbreak Detection in the ICU Setting

Hospital acquired infections (HAI) represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality and a driver of additional costs for people requiring prolonged hospital stays. The incidence of HAI is about 5–7 times higher in the intensive care unit (ICU) compared to the general inpatient population. There are several important characteristics that contribute to the emergence of outbreaks in the ICU setting, including patient characteristics, disease severity, frequent invasive procedures, increased use of antibiotics, and the lack of adherence to contact precautions and hand hygiene. Outbreak investigations in the ICU can be challenging and involve the participation of a multidisciplinary team led by infection control. The use of surveillance tools is critical to identify, track and define the outbreak, determine the nature of the infection and mode of transmission, evaluate current practices, and implement infection control measures to protect patients and healthcare workers.