The impact of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) on in-hospital mortality, morbidity, length-of-stay, and costs has been extensively reported. However, few studies have focused on the follow-up of HCAI-affected subjects after discharge. Most studies have focused on the increased risk of readmission to hospitals. However, HCAIs may impact patient autonomy and the utilization of healthcare resources. We conducted a cohort study aimed at identifying the impact of HCAIs among persons discharged after diagnosis of HCAI in a teaching in inner Brazil. Adult patients discharged from Botucatu Medical School Hospital (450 beds) during 2016–2017 after diagnosis of 1 or more HCAIs were enrolled. For each subject, we included 2 controls matched by specialty (for medical patients) or by the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) surgical group. The cohort was followed with weekly telephone calls for 24 weeks. Data recorded included hospital readmission; return to work or usual daily activities (for those who did not work); number of medicines taken after discharge; number of medical consultations during follow up; necessity of a caregiver (including family members).

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