Implementing Infection Prevention and Control Programs When Resources Are Limited

Abstract

There have been established at least four pillars of patient safety viz., healthcare-associated infection prevention and control (IPC), surgical safety, medication safety, and patient communication. It has always been challenging to design, implement, and monitor the functioning of such pillars especially when resources are limited. The trained human resource is most precious of all followed by infrastructure, consumables, and continuous training. The establishment of “IDEAL framework” recommended elsewhere is the approach to achieve “optimal minimal” patient safety goal; however, simple steps with the limited resources can help improve the patient outcomes and safe work environment in healthcare setting. The program may not be comprehensive initially, and step-wise expansion of program can be planned based on available resources and buying-in from various stakeholders in the healthcare units. Involvement of leadership in the implementation of the IPC program can be the key driver of the program. The program can be initiated in one of the key high-risk areas (e.g., intensive care units or operating room complex) and then can be expanded to other units. Meticulous capturing of healthcare-associated infection (HAI) indicators and their regular feedback brings credibility to the program and help other people to take ownership of the program. This review highlights the basic components of designing, implementation, and monitoring of IPC program when resources are limited.