EMPHASIS OF INFECTION PREVENTION AND CONTROL: A REVIEW

Main Article Content

Dr Harsh Thakur
Dr Rahul Rao

Keywords

Infection, HAI, Healthcare, IPC, Safety

Abstract

Infection prevention and control play a crucial role in maintaining patient safety and reducing the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This research article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the current practices and strategies employed in healthcare settings to prevent and control infections. In recent years, HAIs have become a major concern for healthcare facilities worldwide. The spread of infections within healthcare settings not only poses a threat to patients but also to healthcare workers and visitors. Effective infection prevention and control measures are essential to reduce the incidence of HAIs and ensure the safety of all individuals within a healthcare environment. In order to lessen the effects of HAIs, which are essential for guaranteeing patient safety in hospitals, the World Health Organization (WHO) established the infection prevention and control (IPC) framework. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) present serious issues because of weakened immune systems, invasive medical procedures, and antibiotic-resistant organisms. These infections can have severe effects, such as increased mortality and healthcare expenses. In order to apply IPC measures, healthcare workers (HCWs) are essential. It is now conventional practice to implement infection control programs that incorporate techniques including environmental cleaning, personal protection equipment (PPE), hand hygiene, and surveillance. Nonetheless, obstacles like reluctance to adapt, scarce resources, patient attrition, and fluctuations in patient circumstances continue to exist. Hospital infection control strategies include strict adherence to protocols, employee training, cutting edge technology like telemedicine and Artificial learning AI/ Machine learning ML, and creative sanitation techniques. Increased environmental monitoring, antimicrobial stewardship, and patient involvement may be included into hospital infection control in the future while utilizing inter-facility collaboration. Highlighting the importance of hospital infection control, the analysis makes recommendations for trends and avenues to improve patient safety and preventive actions.

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