Research published in the journal Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology shows the choice of sedative agent can affect healthcare-associated infection risk in mechanically ventilated patients.
To characterize the relationships between sedatives and infections, the authors of the research analyzed 500 articles and accepted 70 studies for review. The systematic literature review revealed HAI rates were highest with benzodiazepines, intermediate with propofol and lowest with dexmedetomidine.
"More data are needed but studies thus far suggest that a better understanding of sedation practices and infection risk may help hospital epidemiologists and critical care practitioners find new ways to mitigate infection risk in critically ill patients," the authors concluded.
More articles on HAIs:
APIC conference stresses importance of no-touch disinfection technology
Pre-operative clipping: Identifying the best tools and practices for infection prevention
Can pulp-based products limit the risk of HAIs?