Urosepsis in the critical care unit

Crit Care Clin. 1998 Apr;14(2):165-80. doi: 10.1016/s0749-0704(05)70390-0.

Abstract

Critical care unit patients show a higher risk of developing a bloodstream infection than ward patients. The urinary tract is the main source of hospital-acquired secondary bloodstream infection. Nosocomial urinary tract infection is promoted by bladder catheterization in the vast majority of cases. Aerobic gram-negative bacilli are the prevalent agents of bloodstream infection secondary to a nosocomial urinary tract infection. Sepsis and septic shock are severe complications of these infections in the critical care patient. Management of patients with a septic process of urinary source calls for the combination of adequate life-supporting care, an appropriate antibiotic therapy, and innovative adjunctive measures. Accurate catheter care is the best measure to adopt for the prevention of urosepsis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacteremia / drug therapy
  • Bacteremia / etiology*
  • Bacteremia / microbiology
  • Bacteremia / prevention & control
  • Cross Infection / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Intensive Care Units
  • Italy
  • Risk Factors
  • Shock, Septic / etiology
  • Urinary Catheterization / adverse effects*
  • Urinary Tract Infections / complications*
  • Urinary Tract Infections / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents