Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) is a crucial framework to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings, aiming to protect both patients and healthcare workers. One of the most effective strategies is hand hygiene; frequent and proper handwashing with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitizers is essential to minimize the transmission of pathogens. Another key component is the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, which protect individuals from direct exposure to infectious agents. Proper usage and disposal of PPE are vital to maintaining its effectiveness.

Environmental cleaning and disinfection also play a critical role in IPC by reducing the risk of infection transmission. High-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, bed rails, and medical equipment, should be cleaned regularly with appropriate disinfectants. Isolation and quarantine measures are implemented for patients with contagious diseases to prevent cross-contamination. The type of isolation (e.g., airborne, droplet, or contact) depends on the nature of the infection.

Vaccination of both healthcare workers and patients is a preventive strategy to avoid the spread of preventable diseases like influenza and COVID-19. Antibiotic stewardship helps reduce the overuse of antibiotics, preventing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Surveillance and monitoring systems ensure the early detection of outbreaks, guiding rapid responses. Lastly, education and training for healthcare workers and patients are critical to reinforcing IPC practices and ensuring safe healthcare environments.