[Nosocomial infection prevention policy in a pneumology service with an intensive care unit]

Abstract

A well-defined policy for the prevention and survey of nosocomial infections is necessary in respiratory disease departments, particularly those with an intensive care unit. Prevention of nosocomial infection requires regular daily action implicating the entire health care team. Risk factors specific to pneumology units and intensive care must be identified and controlled. These factors are related to the type of patients admitted, techniques used in pneumology and respiratory intensive care, and the environment. The entire staff, including medical and non-medical health workers, must be aware of the risk and be provided with continuing education programs. Health care protocols limiting the risk of nosocomial infection must be implemented. A regular check on the incidence or prevalence of nosocomial infection provides a means of assessing the preventive measures and the application of the health care protocols. This approach requires the collaboration of the medical and non-medical staff and the hospital's hygiene unit as well as the local committee for prevention of nosocomial infections.