Nosocomial Infections

Hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infections are a significant concern to the health of patients requiring a hospital stay. These infections affect millions of Americans, lead to tens of thousands of deaths yearly, and cost billions of dollars. They may arise from devices, such as intravenous tubes and catheters, and often affect older and critically ill patients. There are a variety of possible causative agents. Some of these pathogens have developed resistance to common treatment therapies, complicating treatment options. Many steps to minimize nosocomial infection rates have been taken that have proved marginally successful. Proper prevention and treatment are necessary to reduce morbidity and mortality, as well as to decrease the costs of treating these preventable infections.