Title : Urinary tract infections associated with intensive care unit care: Prevention challenges and fatal consequence
Abstract:
Introduction : Urinary tract infections associated with healthcare now represent a significant public health issue. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of healthcareassociated urinary tract infections (HCAUTIs) in intensive care units, identify their risk factors, the causative pathogens and their resistance profiles, as well as analyze the treatments administered and the mortality associated with these infections .
Patients and Methods : This is a retrospective descriptive study conducted in the surgical intensive care unit (P33) from January 2019 to December 2022, including all patients who developed a healthcare-associated bacterial urinary tract infection during their hospitalization
Results : Out of 1,994 hospitalized patients, 116 (6%) developed a healthcare-associated urinary tract infection (HCAUTI), predominantly in men (78%). The main risk factors were urinary catheterization and polytrauma. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most commonly isolated pathogens. The mortality rate reached 53%, with 34% of cases resulting in septic shock.
Discussion : Our retrospective study highlights a high incidence of healthcare-associated urinary tract infections (HCAUTIs) in the intensive care unit, predominantly affecting young men, often with polytrauma. The pathogens involved are mainly Gram-negative bacilli (GNB). The mortality rate reaches 53%, which is further aggravated in the case of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). Prevention remains crucial.
Conclusion: Healthcare-associated urinary tract infections (HCAUTIs) represent a significant challenge in hospital settings, with considerable implications for patient outcomes and healthcare costs. These infections are not only a major cause of morbidity and mortality but also contribute to the increasing burden of antimicrobial resistance. Given their prevalence and severity, effective prevention strategies are essential to mitigate both their clinical and economic impact.
