The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is one of the most vulnerable areas within a hospital, where critically ill patients require continuous monitoring, diagnosis, and support of failing organ systems. Due to the severity of illness and the use of invasive devices, the ICU carries a high risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and cross-transmission between patients and healthcare workers. This article outlines the common sources of infection in the ICU and key measures for effective infection control. An ICU is also one of the most resource-intensive units in a hospital.
While some patients are admitted due to severe infections, others may develop infections during their ICU stay. Optimal outcomes in intensive care medicine require specialized management and strict adherence to infection prevention practices. Reducing HAIs depends largely on preventing the transfer of microorganisms among…
