Spending time in a hospital, nursing home or any type of healthcare facility puts patients at risk for healthcare-acquired infections, or HAIs. Also known as nosocomial infections and hospital-associated infections, HAIs are a major cause of global morbidity and mortality. They are defined as an infection — a disease caused by micro-organisms — that patients acquire when receiving care in a healthcare facility.
There are many types of HAIs. The most frequently reported include catheter-associated urinary tract infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia and central line-associated bloodstream infections. The most common cause of HAIs is the introduction of certain bacterial strains, including C. difficile, MRSA, Enterococcus and various Pseudomonas species.
Transmission of these bacteria comes through many sources. A major cause is using contaminated medical devices during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Other modes of transmission include improperly cleaned or maintained ice machines, table trays and assorted hospital equipment as well as contaminated high-touch surfaces throughout the facility. Patients are exposed to the germs on these surfaces through both direct and indirect contact when proper sanitation procedures are not followed.
For ways to keep your healthcare facility as clean as you can, check out the resource below!
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