Infecções associadas ao uso de dispositivos invasivos em idosos internados em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

Abstract

Objective: To characterize the occurrence of infections associated with the use of invasive devices in elderly patients admitted to an intensive care unit. Method: a retrospective descriptive study was carried out. Data from medical records of elderly patients hospitalized in an intensive care unit and from the hospital Infection Control Service database were analyzed. The data were related to 10 months of service. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed. Results: Among the 428 hospitalized elderly, 12% (53) had infections associated with the use of invasive devices, being 50.9% women, being the majority of them (39.6%) between 60 and 69 years old. Respiratory tract infections associated with mechanical ventilation predominated (44.3%) and Gram-negative microorganisms (66%), with Klebsiella pneumonia (18.4%) being the most prevalent. Of the total elderly with infections, 39.6% died. Among the 58.4% who left discharge for other hospital units, 58% died in the institution. Conclusion: the prevention of infections related to the use of invasive devices considering the vulnerability of the elderly population is fundamental, as well as the epidemiological monitoring and management of risks related to them. The qualification of health professionals and in specific nursing should be carried out systematically in order to advance the quality of care. The prevention of infections is of fundamental importance, mainly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly. The qualification of health professionals is necessary and must be carried out in a systematic way to advance the quality of care.