Case Report: When trauma meets infection in a lower income country
Thursday, November 5th, 2020
Abstract
Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are particularly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). HAIs cause a serious threat to patient wellbeing and have been associated with increased patient morbidity and mortality, longer hospital admission times, increased risk of antibiotic resistance, and higher healthcare costs.
Case: A case of a 23-year-old polytrauma patient in Zambia reveals the devastating outcomes of lack of resources, HAIs, and delayed treatment in LMICs. Discussion: Research demonstrates the negative influence of LMIC status on health care and patient related outcomes. This report, in conjunction with the literature, emphasises the importance of prompt trauma management and strict infection control. The critical need for more knowledge around infection prevention and control (IPC) and resources to implement IPC processes in LMICs are highlighted