A recent study has underlined the significant implications of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in Europe, emphasizing the need for rigorous Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures and antimicrobial stewardship. HAIs represent a major public health concern, with an average prevalence estimated at 5.7-6.5%, and an incidence rate of about 3.7 cases per 100 hospital admissions.
The issue is exacerbated by the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which sees approximately 670,000 AMR infections occurring each year in Europe, resulting in around 33,000 deaths. A key contributor to AMR is the frequent and inappropriate use of antibiotics. A past European study revealed that 35% of hospital patients received antibiotics, primarily systemic antibacterial agents, with a specific reason for administering these drugs documented in only 79.4% of prescriptions.
The situation is particularly problematic in Italy, which surpasses the European average with higher rates of both HAIs (8%) and antibiotic use (44%). The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has been monitoring the issue of HAIs and antimicrobial use in Europe through a series of Point Prevalence Surveys (PPSs). This recent study draws on national data from Italy during the ECDC PPS-2 Point Prevalence Survey, using statistical models to estimate the effects of IPC variables on HAI prevalence and antibiotic use.
The research showed substantial regional variations in Italy, with the percentage of single-bed rooms being the only structural factor significantly affecting HAI prevalence. However, a reduction in instances of antimicrobial agents prescribed without a specific reason was observed with the addition of one more IPC nurse, or one more antibiotic stewardship consultant per 100 beds. Both outcomes were reduced in the presence of routinely filed IPC plans, HAI prevention measures, and post-prescription review.
These findings highlight the imperative role of IPC measures and antimicrobial stewardship in combating HAIs and the inappropriate use of antibiotics.