Notification of Infections in a Neonatal Unity Based on National Criteria

Backgound and Objectives: Healthcare Associated Infections in neonates represent a challenge and an active surveillance system is essential to develop preventive measures. This study aims to describe the main sites and data of Healthcare Associated Infections according to the criteria defi ned by National Agency for Sanitary Surveillance at a reference Neonatal Unit. Methods:This is a prospective observational study conducted from 2009 to 2010. We included all patients at risk and notifi cation of infections followed criteria defi ned by Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária. For Statistical analysis, we calculated the incidence density of Healthcare Associated Infections, frequency and percentage of microorganisms, mortality, and incidence density of deviceassociated infections. Results: This study followed 609 newborns, with 13,215 patient-days. Incidence density of infection was 26.3 per 1000 patient-days, predominantly bloodstream infection (58.8%). microorganisms were isolated, in 116 (33.4%) cases, predominantly coagulase negative Staphylococcus. Conclusion: The main sites and data of IRAS were similar to other previous studies. The defi nition of parameters for national surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections is critical for planning actions in order to prevent these diseases in susceptible populations as neonates.