Primary bloodstream infections in intensive care units: retrospective study of secondary data

Abstract

Objective: To describe the spatial distribution of microorganisms responsible for primary bloodstream infections in intensive care units in Brazil. Method: Observational and retrospective study with documentary analysis conducted in accordance with STROBE, based on secondary data from the National Health Surveillance Agency and the Brazilian Institute for Geography and Statistics referring to 2019–2022. Descriptive analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel® resources, obtaining absolute and relative frequencies, rates per 100,000 inhabitants, and comparisons among the five Brazilian regions.

Results: Regional heterogeneity was identified in microbiological composition: among Gram-negatives, Klebsiella pneumoniae predominated in all regions; among Gram-positives, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was most frequent, especially in the South, Central-West, and Southeast. Non-albicans Candida predominated among fungi in most regions. A considerable increase was observed in 2021, followed by a reduction in 2022. Conclusion: The spatial pattern reveals distinct regional needs regarding the distribution of microorganisms causing primary bloodstream infections. The findings also reflect the pandemic period’s impact on these infections’ occurrence and emphasize the need for regional prevention and control strategies focused on active surveillance and data integration within the public health system.