Healthcare-associated infection (HAI)
A healthcare-associated infection (HAI) is a infection you may get while having healthcare for another reason. HAIs can happen in any part of the body, including the lungs, blood, and the gut. HAIs can happen in any place you get healthcare like hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, dialysis centers, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.
HAIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, and yeasts. Some of these bacteria are resistant to treatment and can spread quickly making them dangerous for people who get infected.
Examples of HAIs:
Why do we care?
When you are getting healthcare, the last thing you want to worry about is getting an infection. Getting an infection can have serious consequences for your emotional, financial, and physical health. Many of these infections are preventable.
Healthcare-associated infections can lead to:
Need for more or stronger antibiotics.
More treatments.
More time in the hospital.
Higher healthcare costs.
Emotional and financial stress.
Severe complications or death.
We want everyone to have safe care.
Am I at risk?
HAIs can affect anyone. HAIs can happen while you're receiving care or not long after. There are different risk factors for different HAIs, but some things that can put you at risk are:
Being 65 or older.
Recent stay at a hospital or nursing home.
Recent or frequent use of antibiotics.
A weakened immune system, like having HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplant patients taking immunosuppressive drugs.
Prior infection with an HAI.
Healthcare outside of Oregon or internationally.
Devices in your body, like breathing tubes, catheters, or IVs.
How to protect yourself
Doctors are here to help! Talk to your provider about any worries you may have about your safety and now they are going to protect you.
Washing hands can prevent the spread of germs.If you do not see your providers clean their hands, ask them to do so. Also remind your loved ones and visitors.
Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking antibiotics early, and do not take them longer than your doctor has told you. Tell your doctor if you have side effects early.
HAIs can cause symptoms of infection. Tell your doctor if you have redness, pain, fever and diarrhea, especially if you are taking any antibiotics.
Protect yourself against the flu and other complications by getting vaccinated. Learn more about flu prevention.
Questions?
Contact us at (971) 673-1111 or email hai@odhsoha.oregon.gov