Infection-Control-Practices-in-Hospitals.pptx

Infection Control Practices in Hospitals. Nosocomial infection, Infection control

1. Infection Control Practices in Hospitals Hospitals are a hotspot for infectious disease transmission. It is critical to understand the basics of infection control practices to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections. B By Basavaraj Hukkeri Belagavi, Karnataka

2. Overview of Infection Control in Hospitals Cleaning and Disinfection Proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and medical equipment is essential to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals. Vaccinations Hospital staff and patients should stay up-to-date with their vaccinations to protect themselves and others from infectious diseases. Education and Training Regular education and training for hospital staff on infection control practices is key to maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

3. Types of Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) Catheter-Associated UTIs A common HAI caused by the use of urinary catheters which can result in serious complications like bloodstream infections. Surgical Site Infections An infection that occurs after surgery in the part of the body where the surgery took place, caused by bacteria entering the surgical area. Respiratory Infections Infections like pneumonia, influenza, and other respiratory infections are spread through airborne droplets generated by coughing and sneezing. Gastrointestinal Infections GI infections like norovirus are common in hospitals and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or food.

4. Common Pathogens and Prevention Methods 1 Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) A type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics, making it difficult to treat. Prevention methods include good hand hygiene and use of contact precautions. 2 Clostridiodes Difficile (C. Diff) A bacterium that can cause severe diarrhea and is spread by coming in contact with contaminated surfaces. Prevention methods include thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and facilities. 3 Influenza (flu) A common viral infection that causes respiratory illness, spread by airborne droplets. Prevention methods include annual vaccination of healthcare workers and patients.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Hand Hygiene Gloves Gloves should be worn when coming into contact with body fluids, contaminated equipment, and environments. Masks Masks are effective to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets, particularly during aerosol-generating procedures. Gowns Gowns should be worn when entering a patient's room for procedures that can cause splashes or sprays of infectious material. Hand Hygiene Good hand hygiene is essential for preventing the transmission of infectious agents. Proper use of hand sanitizers and handwashing as required.

6. Isolation Precautions: When and How to Use Them Contact Precautions Used for patients with contagious diseases that spread through contact. Require gloves and a gown when entering the patient's room. Airborne Precautions Used for patients with diseases that spread through the air. Requires a specialized mask like N95 respirators. Droplet Precautions Used for patients with diseases that spread through droplets. Requires a mask and eye protection for those entering the patient's room.

7. Surveillance and Reporting of HAIs 1 Monitoring Surveillance should be done regularly to detect infections early and prevent them from spreading. 2 Reporting Reporting of infections is required by law to detect outbreaks, identify areas of need for improvement, and guide infection prevention strategies. 3 Data Analysis Data should be analyzed to identify trends, develop improvement plans, and allocate resources more efficiently.

8. Importance of a Strong Infection Control Program 1 Cost Savings The prevention of HAIs can save the hospital money by reducing the length of stay of infected patients and reducing the use of antibiotics. 2 Patient Safety Infection control practices protect patients from harm and provide them with a safe environment for treatment. 3 Staff Safety Implementing infection control practices also protects healthcare workers from exposure to infectious diseases.