Epidemiology and prevention of pseudomonas aeruginosa chest infection in an intensive care unit.

An epidemiological investigation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an Intensive Care Neurosurgical Unit has shown that there were epidemic, endemic and endogenous types present simultaneously. These pseudomonads were cultured from purulent sputa postoperatively and sometimes caused systemic disease. The epidemic type was traced to a ventilator and a nebulizer whilst the endemic and endogenous types were not found in environmental sites. Effective decontamination of equipment and the use of bacterial filters where possible are essential in preventing the spread of infection. Staff hygiene remains important, particularly hand washing with antiseptic soap preparations.