Common Infections in the Long-Term Care Setting
Infections are a significant source of illness and death in the long-term care setting (LTC), accounting for many of the transfers from LTC facilities to hospitals. Older residents residing in LTC facilities are particularly prone to developing infection because of factors that result in impaired immune defenses and in increased risk of exposure to microbes. Infections can be acquired through endogenous (within the body) or exogenous (outside the body) sources in institutional settings. Intravenous lines and urinary catheters are common causes of infection in LTC residents. Exogenous infections are usually transmitted by direct contact (e.g., by hands), although airborne and other forms of transmission may also occur.
The Common Infections in the Long Term Care Setting guideline focuses on management of the four most common types of infections occurring in long-term care: urinary tract, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin infections. It also discusses infection control, colonization versus true infection, and antibiotic resistance in long-term care facilities. The processes recommended in the guideline, if implemented, should help long-term care facilities to systematically manage and improve the care of residents who develop infections.
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