What is a key goal of healthcare-associated infection prevention?

A key goal of healthcare-associated infection prevention is to prevent the onset of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This focus is crucial because HAIs pose significant risks to patients, resulting in longer hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and higher morbidity and mortality rates. By prioritizing prevention, healthcare facilities aim to implement evidence-based practices and strategies that mitigate the risk of infections arising from medical care.

The prevention of HAIs involves various protocols and measures, such as proper hand hygiene, appropriate use of antibiotics, vaccination, and rigorous disinfection practices. These initiatives are designed to create a safer healthcare environment, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

While improving patient-room cleanliness, training staff on emergency responses, and standardizing surgical procedures are important aspects of overall patient safety and quality of care, they serve as supportive components within the broader goal of directly preventing infections. Effective infection control begins with the explicit aim of reducing HAIs, thereby forming the cornerstone of patient safety and care quality initiatives.