Causes
The hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) or nosocomial pneumonia is a type of pneumonia that develops during a hospital stay. These infections are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that are acquired within the hospital environment. Common pathogens responsible for PAH include Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Prolonged hospitalization, mechanical ventilation, underlying health conditions, and immunocompromised status increase the risk of HAP.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hospital-acquired pneumonia are similar to those of community-acquired pneumonia, including:
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In patients with HAP, a high fever is a common symptom of pneumonia.
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Patients may experience a persistent cough that produces phlegm or mucus.
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A hallmark symptom of the disease is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.
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It is possible to experience chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing.
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In elderly or debilitated patients, generalized fatigue and weakness are common symptoms.
Diagnosis
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests are typically used to diagnose hospital-acquired pneumonia. It is possible to assess pneumonia symptoms, such as lung infiltrates or consolidation, with chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT). To identify the causative pathogen, laboratory tests may be conducted, including blood cultures and sputum cultures. To obtain a sample of lung tissue or fluid for further analysis, bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) may be performed.
Treatment
In many cases, antibiotic therapy is used to treat hospital-acquired pneumonia by targeting the pathogen responsible for the infection. Antibiotics are selected based on the suspected or identified causative organism and may be adjusted after culture and sensitivity testing are performed. Patients with severe HAP, especially those with sepsis or respiratory failure, may need supportive care measures such as oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, or ICU admission.
Prevention
In order to prevent hospital-acquired pneumonia, a multifaceted approach is required aimed at reducing the risk of infection transmission within healthcare settings. Key strategies include:
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Healthcare workers should adhere to strict hand hygiene practices, such as handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
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Preventing pathogen spread can be achieved by implementing infection control measures such as isolation precautions, environmental cleaning, and proper disinfection of medical equipment.
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Patients with underlying health conditions and those at risk of HAP should be vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.
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When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
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By promoting early mobilization and rehabilitation of hospitalized patients, complications such as pneumonia associated with prolonged bed rest or immobility can be prevented.
Conclusion
A common and potentially serious infection that develops in hospitalized patients is hospital-acquired pneumonia. HAP is typically caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The risk of complications can be reduced when HAP is diagnosed promptly and treated appropriately with antibiotics. To minimize the risk of infection transmission within healthcare settings, infection control measures, hand hygiene, vaccination, and early mobilization are employed.
