Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is a type of pneumonia that is contracted during one’s stay in a hospital – typically occurring within 48 hours. Common bacteria that cause it include ram-negative bacilli and Staphylococcus aureus. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is particularly dangerous as it is often resistant to antibiotics.

The risk for hospital-acquired pneumonia can be quite high for some patients, as they are already sick and their immune systems are often weak from fighting off another illness. Hence, preventative measures are of utmost importance for lowering the risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia to avoid further health complications.

Signs and symptoms of hospital-acquired pneumonia

Signs and symptoms of hospital-acquired pneumonia include the following:

• Persistent cough (you may cough up greenish or yellow mucus, or even bloody mucus)
• Fever, which may be mild or high
• Sweating and shaking chills
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath, which may only occur when you climb stairs
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Seniors over 65 and people in poor health may have a lower body temperature. Older people can also experience sudden changes in mental awareness. Hospital-acquired pneumonia can even be a life-threatening to seniors.

Source: HAP