Hospital Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia
Hospital Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia
Hospital Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (HABP) is a type of lung infection caused by bacteria that is transmitted to patients through the hospital environment due to inadequate infection prevention or control measures. HABPs are one of the most common and serious infections acquired in hospitals, and are associated with high mortality rates. The risk of HABP is increased in patients who are already medically compromised due to other underlying medical conditions.
HABP is commonly caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but other bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Legionella pneumophila can also cause HABP. It is typically spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, medical equipment, hands of healthcare workers who have not properly washed their hands, and contact with patients or colonized individuals who are carriers of the bacteria.
Symptoms of HABP are similar to those of pneumonia, and may include:
- Coughing, especially if accompanied by yellow or green sputum
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Shaking
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache
Treatment of HABP typically includes antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and supportive care. Severe HABP may require mechanical ventilation or an intensive care unit stay. Prevention of HABP is a key component of quality healthcare, and includes proper infection control measures such as hand hygiene, cleaning and disinfection of medical equipment, and isolation of infected individuals.
