In healthcare environments such as hospitals and nursing homes, the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is notably high. These infections spread primarily through microbes that patients encounter during their treatment.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks HAIs and their effects. In 2021, they reported about 687,000 HAIs in U.S. acute care hospitals, contributing to approximately 72,000 patient deaths during hospitalization.
Common HAIs include infections from catheters, ventilators, and central lines, with prevalent pathogens like C. difficile, MRSA, Enterococcus, and various Pseudomonas species.
Although not all HAI transmissions can be prevented, especially airborne ones, strict adherence to best practices can greatly reduce these infections. Critical patient care measures include rigorous hand hygiene, completing antibiotic regimens, and careful management of intravenous sites.
At the organizational level, addressing HAIs requires following the latest reprocessing instructions and manufacturers’ guidelines for medical devices and surgical instruments to ensure sterility. Additional preventive measures include thorough cleaning protocols for all equipment, including less obvious items like ice machines and sink drains, and frequent handling of textiles.
For a more detailed discussion on HAIs and prevention strategies in healthcare settings, refer to the infographic below for further resources and information.
Infographic created by Empire Cooler, supplying commercial ice maker lease to address your business’s ice and refrigeration needs
