감염관리를 위한 세균학 기초

Abstract

As bacteria are pathogens that often cause healthcare-associated infections, it is important to understand their characteristics, in order to carry out proper infection control activities. Differences in virulence and site of colonization cause differences in the distribution of major causative pathogens, and thus in the types of infection. Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are particularly important in healthcare-associated infections because they erode the efficacy of antibiotics and lead to treatment failure. To prevent the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria within healthcare facilities, infection control activities, including encouraging hand hygiene and application of contact precaution for infected patients are necessary.