Healthcare-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance in severe acquired brain injury: a retrospective multicenter study

Background Recent studies underscore that healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) HAIs affect rehabilitation outcomes hospital length of stay (LOS) for severe acquired brain injury (sABI). Objective This study aimed to estimate HAI incidence in different sABI settings determine risk factors impact on neuromotor cognitive recovery. Methods We conducted a retrospective multicenter two semi-intensive units (SICUs), high-specialty post-acute (PAUs), one long-term care (LTC) facility. Data extraction was performed by experienced clinicians, using structured Excel file they agreed upon criteria case definitions healthcare. The main outcome measures were the MDR LOS, functional recovery measured Level Cognitive Functioning Disability Rating Scale. Results There 134 participants. calculation probability level adjusted three pairwise comparisons among (0.05/3 = 0.017). incidences significantly higher SICU (3.7 1.3 per 100 person-days) than other (LTC: 1.9, p 0.034 0.5, 0.026; PAU: 1.2, < 0.001 0.3, 0.001). variables included older age, an increased number devices, carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) colonization, while high prealbumin plasma value seemed have protective effect. Conclusion are related longer colonization is associated with poor prognosis reduced ability achieve capacity self-care, employability, independent living. need ensure protection non-colonized patients, especially those disabilities admission, highlighted.