Less Chance of Catching an Infection in ICU If You Have Your Own Room
About 30% of ICU patients acquire infections that drive up morbidity and mortality, and cost hospitals lots of money.
In a recent study, single-bed rooms when compared to multi-bed rooms resulted in better infection control. On their own, patients were less likely to be exposed to pathogens from contaminated equipment, the environment, a staff member, or another patient, as well as endogenous organisms.
“This study demonstrates the potential benefit of single rooms in reducing the transmission of infections in ICU settings,” wrote researchers in the Jan. 10 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.
The switch to private rooms resulted in a marginally significant 10% reduction in the average patient stay in the ICU – a point that is consistent with knowledge that infections increase the average stay.
