Infectioncontrol

Infection control, also known as infection prevention and control, refers to policies and procedures designed to prevent or limit the spread of infections. It operates in healthcare settings and, increasingly, in community and workplace environments. The aim is to protect patients, staff, visitors, and the public from communicable diseases and to reduce transmission risks in all settings.

Core practices include standard precautions, which assume that all blood and body fluids may be infectious, and transmission-based precautions tailored to how a pathogen spreads (contact, droplet, or airborne). Hand hygiene is foundational, using soap and water or alcohol-based hand rubs. Personal protective equipment, safe injection practices, proper ventilation, environmental cleaning, and the sterilization and disinfection of instruments are essential components. Safe handling of sharps and appropriate waste management also play critical roles.

Surveillance, outbreak management, and continuous education are central to infection control. Infection prevention and control teams monitor infection rates, investigate suspected outbreaks, and implement control measures. Vaccination of health workers and patients, antimicrobial stewardship to curb resistance, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines help sustain gains. Guidelines from organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention inform practice at national and local levels.

Challenges include limited resources, clinician and staff adherence to protocols, and the emergence of new pathogens or resistant organisms. Ongoing training, performance feedback, leadership support, and adequate infrastructure are necessary to maintain effective infection control programs.