PREVALENCE OF HOSPITAL-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG ADULT PATIENTS ADMITTED TO THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT AT ST. PAUL’S HOSPITAL MILLENNIUM MEDICAL COLLEGE, ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Hospital-acquired pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that can occur in patients who have been hospitalized, particularly in the intensive care unit. It can be caused by various patient and healthcare-related factors, which include modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, as well as a prolonged hospital stay and a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. Objective: The main aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of hospital-acquired pneumonia in the adult intensive care unit at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College from July 2023 to January 2024. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the adult intensive care unit at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College from July 2023 to January 2024. A total of 247 patients were included using a purposive sampling technique, wherein all patients who met the inclusion criteria and did not meet the exclusion criteria during the study period were enrolled. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of the prevalence of HAP in the ICU Result: The prevalence of hospital-acquired pneumonia in this study was 26%, which is higher than rates seen in developed nations but consistent with prior studies in Ethiopia. Several risk factors were identified, including advanced age, neurological abnormalities, prior hospital stays, mechanical ventilation, immunosuppressant use, patient transport, and blood transfusions. This data highlights the substantial burden of HAP among critically ill patients at this facility. Conclusion & recommendation: The study found a hospital-acquired pneumonia prevalence of 26%, highlighting a significant burden among critically ill patients. Health professionals should implement infection prevention bundles and enhance precautions. Policymakers must prioritize patient safety through regular education. Further research is needed to assess HAP's long-term impact in Ethiopia, guiding improved patient care strategies. Keywords: HAP, ICU, prolonged hospital stay, SPHMMC, Ethiopia