Nosocomial Infections: Epidemiology, Prevention, Control, Diagnosis and the Role of the Microbiology Laboratory

Abstract

Nosocomial infections, more commonly known as healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), claim numerous lives annually. These infections are contracted by patients during the course of their treatment for other conditions, leading to a significant increase in patient morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, HAIs impose a substantial direct and indirect financial burden, straining already limited healthcare resources. Combating these infections requires a multidisciplinary strategy that integrates the expertise of healthcare professionals, infection control specialists, and microbiology laboratories to implement evidence-based preventive practices. This scripted review aims to highlight beneficial and important diagnostic techniques for identifying various types of HAIs. The findings from this review are intended to be applicable for guiding further appropriate health services, thereby aiding both clinical practice and societal health outcomes.