[Basic and clinical control of nosocomial infections]

Abstract

Nosocomial infections, especially opportunistic infections and occupationally acquired infections, are causing major problems in perioperative period. Opportunistic infections are increased by opportunism secondary to antibiotic therapy and lower body defences. Organisms that cause opportunistic infections come from either exogenous or endogenous sources. Exogenous infections result from transmission of organisms from a source other than the patient. Control of person-to-person spread, such as handwashing and gown technique, disinfection and sterilization of equipment, and environmental cleaning are necessary to prevent exogenous infections. Endogenous infections are caused by the patient's own flora. Antibiotic policies are required to prevent endogenous infections. The main preventive measure of occupationally acquired infections, especially blood-borne infections, is practices of universal precautions. Universal precautions are intended to prevent parenteral, mucous membrane, and nonintact skin exposures to blood-borne pathogens in health care settings.