The five healthcare-acquired infections are the following:
- Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI): A CAUTI occurs when a urinary catheter is inserted into the urethra using the improper (aseptic) technique, causing germs to colonize the urinary tract.
- Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI): Similarly, a CLABSI occurs when a central line is improperly inserted into the body, causing germs to colonize the blood (sepsis).
- Clostridium difficile infection (CDI): Sick patients who are being treated at hospitals for infections are highly susceptible to the clostridium difficile bacterium, which colonizes the GI tract after antibiotic therapy wipes out the native GI flora. Poor sanitary conditions and improper washing of hands among medical personnel are additional risk factors for C. difficile infection.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection: MRSA is a common, particularly virulent strain of the S. aureus bacterium that commonly infects the skin and blood and is resistant to multiple antibiotics. It is commonly contracted in hospitals and can be avoided by rapid treatment and care to avoid transmission.
- Surgical site infection (SSI): This results from improper sterilization techniques during or after surgeries, resulting in infection of the wound or surgical site.