Instances of 10 healthcare-acquired conditions in the U.S. from 2010 to 2013 dropped 17 percent, but the nation made greater strides in reducing some patient harm events than in others.
The following five HACs had the largest percent reduction from 2010 to 2013, according to preliminary data from HHS:
- Central line-associated bloodstream infections: 49 percent reduction
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infections: 28 percent
- Pressure ulcers: 20 percent
- Adverse drug events: 19 percent
- Surgical site infections: 19 percent
The nation did not do as well at reducing ventilator-associated pneumonia, as instances of VAP dropped just 3 percent from 2010 to 2013.