Sociodemographic and clinical profiles of patients receiving home care and the occurrence and management of healthcare-associated infections: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Home care is increasingly adopted worldwide to improve patients' quality of life and reduce the burden on hospitals. However, the risk of healthcare-related infections in home settings is a growing concern that necessitates further investigation and preventive measures.

Objectives: We aimed to describe the sociodemographic and clinical profiles of home care patients, determine the incidence and management of healthcare-associated infections at home, and evaluate the risk factors.

Design and setting: This quantitative, observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted in Teresina, PI, Brazil.

Methods: Data were collected from 130 patients receiving home care between April 2016 and September 2020 in the state capital of Northeast Brazil. The data were retrospectively collected from hospital records using a previously validated form and analyzed.

Results: The cohort predominantly comprised men (53.1%), older adults (53.1%), and patients with neurological disorders (61.9%). Healthcare-associated infections were prevalent in 46.2% of home care patients, with respiratory infections being the most common (47.2%). Clinical diagnoses were made in 66.7% of these patients. Patients with female caregivers, with a tracheostomy, using invasive feeding devices for >6 months, and with a greater degree of dependence were more predisposed to infections. Adult patients, those with young adult caregivers, those who received long-term home care, and those who required prolonged tracheostomy were also at increased risk.

Conclusion: This study underscores the home care patient profiles, prevalence of associated infections, and risk factors. Preventive measures and specific interventions are needed to enhance home care quality and reduce the infection risk.