Medical Device-Associated Infections in Intensive Care Settings: Biofilms, Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens, and Prevention Strategies.

A large percentage of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are medical device-associated infections (DAIs), which significantly raise patient morbidity, mortality, and medical costs. The use of invasive medical devices such as ventilators, central venous catheters, and urinary catheters is linked to a significant number of HAIs. Reports from the World Health Organization and extensive epidemiological studies highlight the pervasive effects of HAIs, particularly in resource-constrained environments. Ventilator-associated pneumonia, central line-associated bloodstream infections, and catheter-associated urinary tract infections are the most common forms of medical DAIs. These infections frequently result in longer hospital stays and more expensive medical care. Longer device use and inadequate aseptic procedures increase the risk of infection. Furthermore, because implant-related infections are recurrent and persistent, they present additional treatment challenges. One of the main causes of medical DAIs is biofilm formation. Biofilms are structured groups of microorganisms encased in an extracellular matrix that enhances their survival and resistance. Adhesion, maturation, and dispersion are the stages of biofilm formation that lead to persistent infections. These biofilms offer defense against the immune system and antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae are common pathogens linked to DAIs; many of these pathogens exhibit multidrug resistance (MDR). Mechanisms such as carbapenem resistance and extended-spectrum β-lactamase production complicate treatment even more. On its priority list, the World Health Organization emphasizes the urgent need to address MDR pathogens.