What are the main causes of infection in critically ill patients?
The main causes of infection in critically ill patients include age, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, season, hypertension, diabetes, and some chronic diseases. As age increases, the possibility of severe infection also increases, and the likelihood of concurrent dysfunction of multiple organs also rises. Once severe infection is detected, immediate medical attention and treatment are required, as the condition can easily worsen further and become life-threatening.
Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and medication use: The insertion of various catheters, such as endotracheal tubes, urinary catheters, gastric tubes, intravascular catheters, chest and abdominal drainage tubes, or invasive procedures like surgery, can cause skin and mucosal injuries. Additionally, extensive use of antibiotics can lead to imbalance in the flora and the growth and proliferation of resistant strains. Nosocomial transmission of pathogens: This primarily occurs through contact with the hands of medical personnel. Furthermore, contaminated medical equipment, supplies, and hospital environments can also become significant sources of infection.
Decreased immune function is prone to causing infection, which is more likely to occur in critically ill patients with severe trauma, major surgery, shock, coma, etc. The more severe the patient's condition, the more significant the decline in their immune function. In addition to primary injuries or diseases, malnutrition, excessive protein loss, and the use of corticosteroid medications can also lead to decreased immune function. Furthermore, elderly patients, long-term bedridden patients, and patients with unhealthy habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption may also have decreased immune capabilities.
This situation is commonly seen in severe trauma, especially trauma to hollow organs; obstruction of the ductal system, such as biliary obstruction leading to cholangitis, tissue necrosis, perforation, and peritonitis caused by intestinal obstruction; pressure ulcers caused by prolonged bed rest, resulting in skin damage; and the inhibition of the cough reflex in patients with coma, leading to aspiration.
