Controlling Infection and Improving Patient Safety in Hospital Settings

Abstract

A major issue in hospitals across the United States is the threat of infection outbreaks.  The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that two million hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) occur each year.  It is also estimated that these infections contribute to 99,000 deaths annually [1].  Disease can be quickly and uncontrollably transmitted through a hospital if proper protocols are not taken.  Many practices have been adopted to battle this problem.  A major initiative over the last few years is promoting the importance of hand hygiene in hospitals, as it is extremely vital in preventing the transmission of disease.  Other examples of typical hospital protocols include specific procedures, describing the proper disposal of waste and the steps to sterilize an operating room.  Some medical studies have attempted to examine more drastic protocols, such as contact isolation for all infected patients.  Some of these procedures have proven successful, others have not.  Most shortcomings with infection control come from lack of doctor and nurse compliance.  Even if hospital administration implements completely foolproof solutions, they cannot be successful without 100% doctor and nurse participation.  To confront this issue of hospital-acquired infections, a check-system should be put in place to reinforce patient safety protocols.