Obeagu et al reported risk factors for nosocomial infection in a patient with sickle cell disease. A patient with sickle cell anemia may be at increased risk for nosocomial infection. The authors are from Kampala International University in Uganda and Osun State University in Nigeria.
Patient selection: sickle cell anemia
Risk factors for nosocomial infection:
(1) frequent hospitalization
(2) hydroxyurea
(3) exposure to other immunocompromising drug(s)
(4) invasive procedures
(5) prolonged hospital stay(s)
(6) complications affecting lungs, bones, kidneys or other organs
(7) incomplete vaccinations
Several of these risk factors are also associated with risk of being infected by multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. A patient with multiple risk factors should be screened for colonization by multi-drug resistant organisms.
Repeated exposure to antibiotics can increase the risk of multi-drug resistant organisms and select for less common pathogens such as yeast infections.
Vaccinations may reduce the risk the risk of some infections. This can reduce nosocomial spread and reduce contact with healthcare facilities.
