However, patients in the intensive care unit have a higher probability of getting a hospital infection. Intensive care patients have the most recovery to do, so adding an infection to the list of problems could have devastating effects. Because of the risk factors associated with contracting a hospital infection, it is important to pay attention to the symptoms, which include:

• inflammation
• fever
• discharge
• abscess

Finally, being aware of when to look for a hospital infection could prove beneficial. Patients often begin to show signs of infection:

• up to 48 hours after being admitted to the hospital
• up to three days after release
• up to 30 days after an operation.

Suspecting a Hospital Infection

Could you have a hospital infection? If you suspect that you contracted a hospital infection, it would probably be in your best interest to let the hospital know immediately. Regardless of the infection type, all hospital infections should be treated with importance because they can alter your recovery time or, worst case, cause death. Do not let your suspicion of hospital infection go unchecked. Your health could depend on it.