The training curriculum in hospital infection control

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Infection control nurse (ICN) training is standardized in Europe, but infection control physician (ICP) specialty recognition is lacking.
• Current ICP training pathways vary, with backgrounds predominantly in clinical microbiology or infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate current curricula and propose an ideal training framework for infection control physicians (ICPs).
• To assess the composition and staffing of infection control teams across European countries.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was distributed to members of the ESCMID Study Group on Nosocomial Infections.
• Data on full-time equivalents (FTEs) for ICPs and ICNs were collected from 12 European countries.

Main Results:

• Average FTEs per 1000 beds were 1.2 for ICPs and 3.4 for ICNs.
• An ideal infection control team requires an estimated 9.3 FTE per 1000 beds, including data managers and epidemiologists.
• A 6-year postgraduate training, including 2 years of clinical experience, is recommended for ICPs.

Conclusions:

• Standardization and recognition of ICP training are crucial for effective infection control.
• Further development is needed for validating training facilities and implementing mandatory continuing medical education for infection control professionals.