Healthcare-Associated Infections in Neonates

Background: Healthcare-associated infections occur during the process of care in a healthcare facility, and manifest 48 hours after admission. These vary widely in demographic characteristics, clinical and microbiological profile. The threat of antimicrobial resistance is a critical issue in healthcare. Objective: To assess the spectrum of different types of healthcare associated infections in neonates. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted from November 2023 to October 2024 at a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi. The study population consisted of neonates admitted in hospital and developing HAIs. Primary data was collected by interviewing the caregivers of neonates and medical records were reviewed to collect secondary information. Results: The study found that only three types of HAIs (BSI, VAP and CAUTI) were prevalent in neonates. The major risk factors were low birth weight, pre-term births, delivery by LSCS, multiple births, history of previous hospitalisation and underlying co-morbidities. Clinical presentation varied for each type of infection. The microbial profile showed a high prevalence of gram-negative organisms. Maximum anti-microbial resistance was encountered to penicillins and fluoroquinolones. Conclusion: BSI and VAP were the most common types of HAIs, with multiple risk factors, some of which were significantly associated with infection. Significant anti-microbial resistance was found.