Prevalence of healthcare-associated infections in Dutch nursing homes: follow-up 2010-2017

Following the first point-prevalence study in Dutch nursing homes conducted each November from 2007 to 2009, we conducted a follow-up point-prevalence study of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) each November from 2010 to 2017. Similar methods and criteria were used. Resident characteristics were recorded, data collection was performed by the attending elderly care physicians via an online survey, as well as via a specifically designed App from 2012. As of the same year, information on incontinence was added. Between 2010 until 2017 on average 1786 residents per year were included, ranging from 1571 to 2185. HCAI prevalence with respect to age (mean: 83 years) and sex (31% men and 69% women) were similar over all the years. The overall mean prevalence rate in the first four years was 6.7% versus 2.2% in the last six years. Urinary tract infection was the most prevalent HCAI (1.5%). Most HCAIs occurred among residents of rehabilitation units. The prevalence of HCAI varied by nursing home (0.0-37.0%). The average use of antibiotics was stable over the years (6.0%) irrespective of HCAI rate. Use of incontinence materials was on average 73.5% with 64.3% of residents being reported as incontinent. Those implementing improvement of infection control and surveillance within a new setting do need to continue for multiple years before seeing the success of their endeavour.