Nosocomial infection control: an overview
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 22, 2026
Microbial Control and Monitoring Strategies for Cleanroom Environments and Cellular Therapies
Published on: March 17, 2023
Abstract:
Nosocomial infections are one of the most important public health problems in the world today. Although a great deal of attention is being directed toward the control and prevention of these infections, old problems continue to occur and new problems are constantly arising. The approximately 5% rate of nosocomial infections among patients admitted to acute-care hospitals has a significant impact on patients morbidity and morality and on the financial concerns of the patient, hospital, and community. An effective, efficient, and sensitive surveillance program developed to meet the needs of the individual hospital is absolutely necessary to obtain data on nosocomial infections from which controls and prevention programs can be developed. At the same time, lessons can be learned from the experience of other hospitals. The nosocomial infection control and prevention program must be under the general direction of a representative, interested, effective infection control committee. One area of importance under the committee's responsibility is that of an appropriate isolation program practiced by all persons within the hospital.
Insights
Nosocomial infections, a persistent public health issue, affect about 5% of hospital patients. Effective surveillance and hospital-wide isolation protocols are crucial for controlling these infections.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Administration
Background:
- Nosocomial infections represent a significant global public health challenge.
- These infections impact patient morbidity, mortality, and incur substantial financial costs for all stakeholders.
- Despite ongoing efforts, controlling and preventing healthcare-associated infections remains a complex issue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the necessity of robust surveillance programs for nosocomial infections.
- To highlight the importance of hospital-specific infection control strategies.
- To underscore the role of infection control committees and isolation protocols.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data and challenges in nosocomial infection control.
- Emphasis on developing tailored surveillance systems.
- Discussion of the organizational structure for infection prevention.
Main Results:
- A 5% infection rate in acute-care hospitals significantly impacts patient outcomes and healthcare economics.
- Effective surveillance is essential for data-driven control and prevention program development.
- Lessons learned from other institutions can inform local strategies.
Conclusions:
- An effective, efficient, and sensitive surveillance program is critical for managing nosocomial infections.
- Infection control programs require oversight from a dedicated committee.
- Implementing appropriate isolation practices is a key responsibility within hospitals.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
01:26Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies. Common...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
01:23Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
01:26Standard Precaution
Hand hygiene is the most crucial means to prevent the transmission of disease. Employers are legally required to provide their workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure or contact with...
01:27Nursing Clinical Information System
A Nursing Clinical Information System (NCIS) is a specialized type of healthcare information system tailored to meet the unique needs of nursing practice. It incorporates the principles of nursing informatics to streamline information management and improve the quality of care delivery.
Critical attributes of NCIS include: