The EPIC II study, conducted on May 8, 2007, aimed to provide an up-to-date picture of the extent and patterns of infection in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. The study involved 1265 ICUs from 76 countries, with a total of 14,414 patients. Key findings include: - 51% of patients were considered infected, and 71% were receiving antibiotics. - Respiratory infections were the most common, accounting for 64% of infections. - Gram-negative organisms were isolated from 62% of infectious episodes, followed by Gram-positive organisms (47%) and fungi (19%). - Infections were more prevalent in patients with longer ICU stays, particularly those with resistant staphylococci, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas species, and fungi. - ICU and hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in infected patients (25.0% vs 10.5%, and 32.6% vs 14.5%, respectively). - Infection was independently associated with an increased risk of hospital mortality (odds ratio 1.52, P<0.001). The study highlights the global prevalence and impact of infections in ICUs, emphasizing the need for improved infection prevention and management strategies.The EPIC II study, conducted on May 8, 2007, aimed to provide an up-to-date picture of the extent and patterns of infection in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. The study involved 1265 ICUs from 76 countries, with a total of 14,414 patients. Key findings include: - 51% of patients were considered infected, and 71% were receiving antibiotics. - Respiratory infections were the most common, accounting for 64% of infections. - Gram-negative organisms were isolated from 62% of infectious episodes, followed by Gram-positive organisms (47%) and fungi (19%). - Infections were more prevalent in patients with longer ICU stays, particularly those with resistant staphylococci, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas species, and fungi. - ICU and hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in infected patients (25.0% vs 10.5%, and 32.6% vs 14.5%, respectively). - Infection was independently associated with an increased risk of hospital mortality (odds ratio 1.52, P<0.001). The study highlights the global prevalence and impact of infections in ICUs, emphasizing the need for improved infection prevention and management strategies.