Infection Control Guidelines

Attention to infection control and concerns over transmission of infection to other patients or to a patient who is at risk of infection is very important in the healthcare setting. There is evidence dating back to the early part of the 19th Century of theories and practices designed to minimize infection risks associated with healthcare delivery. The nurses are in a unique position to practice strict followership of infection control techniques in the hospital setting since it is through them the major portions of care takes place. They are in constant touch and communication with the patients, and they are the final common pathway for delivery of evidence-based care. They undergo the threat of infection transmitted into themselves due to close proximity with the ailing patients in the hospital beds. They virtually cannot avoid contact physically or cannot avoid exposure to the bodily secretions of the patients. Even if actual infection contracted from the patients is rare, they can serve as an effective vehicle for transmission of many infections to patients who are not infected. This transmission of infection in the healthcare setting is such a problematic issue that this is termed as hospital-acquired infection that is very difficult to cure and that might result in extended stay in the hospital environment.

Keywords: transmission of infection, infection control, hand hygiene, hand washing, health care