Which patient population is considered at higher risk for HAIs?

Patients with compromised immune systems are considered at higher risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) due to their weakened ability to fight off pathogens. This compromised state can arise from various conditions, such as cancer treatments (chemotherapy), autoimmune disorders, organ transplants, or the use of immunosuppressive medications. The immune system’s primary function is to defend the body against infections, and when this system is impaired, the body becomes more susceptible to infections that would typically be managed effectively by a healthy immune response.

In contrast, younger, healthy individuals and those without chronic illnesses generally have fully functioning immune systems that can effectively respond to infections. Patients recovering from minor procedures may also have a reduced risk for HAIs compared to those with compromised immune systems since minor procedures typically do not significantly hinder immune function. Therefore, recognizing that patients with compromised immune systems are at a heightened risk for HAIs underscores the importance of infection prevention strategies in clinical settings to protect these vulnerable individuals.