COVID-19-related Secondary Bacterial Infections in Intubated Critical Illness

Objective: The prevalence, occurrence, and characteristics of bacterial infection in individuals with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 is primarily unknown. In this research, we examined the effects of secondary bacterial infections (SBI), antibiotic use, and mortality on coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients who were observed in intensive care units (ICU) when intubated.
Material and Methods: Between October 1, 2020 and February 1, 2021, patients who were monitored because of COVID-19 in adult ICUs at tertiary healthcare facilities were included in this retrospective research. The study included The study included a total of 170 individuals with acute respiratory distress syndrome and COVID-19 pneumonia.
Results: Antibiotics were given to 154 (90.58%) patients. While all SBI-positive patients received antibiotic treatment, 78 (45.88%) SBI-negative patients were also treated. In addition, SBI-positive patients had a higher mortality rate (p<0.001). Time-SBI was 3.13±2.42/days in patients with catheters, and it was shorter and statistically significantly different compared with patients without catheters (p<0.03). Blood culture growths were discovered in 24 (14.1%) of patients and were the most common.
Conclusion: Antibiotic-resistant microorganisms render humans more vulnerable to bacterial infections while also reducing our ability to fight viral pandemics. Preventing drug resistance and avoiding needless antibiotic treatment are two strategies that should be implemented today to prepare for future pandemics.