Although the infection control department isn't directly responsible for environmental cleaning, it is definitely within the scope of responsibility of the infection control department. The literature has shown that hospital environmental surfaces are frequently contaminated with multidrug-resistant organisms and Clostridioides difficile (C. diff). Hands of...
We are probably all too familiar with the alphabet soup that comprises multiple drug-resistant organisms (MDROs): carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and most recently Candida auris. While it is easy to think that Staph aureus is only...
Infection prevention and control was formerly known simply as 'infection control,' although the 'old' moniker seems to be sticking around. The name morphed to better establish the emphasis on prevention, which is the true work of this field. As we all know, it is much...
In a healthcare facility, infections can spread from almost anywhere. As incredible as that sounds, it is true. Take a look at a typical healthcare environment: there are many surfaces that multiple people – staff, patients, and visitors – all touch numerous times. Elevator buttons,...
Infectious diseases are those that are caused by microscopic organisms including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. The organisms enter the body, multiply and cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including death. The severity of the disease depends on the organism’s ability to overcome the...
The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) hosts the largest gathering of infection prevention professionals in the world. This conference hosts an impressive lineup of industry professionals and accredited experts in the field. With over 100 sessions delving into innovative solutions for...
The surgical attire guideline was extensively revised by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and has received much attention since publication in 2015. The most controversial point was the requirement to cover all hair on the head and ears, which was based on a...
Certification – is the Consultant certified in Infection Control? The Certification Board of Infection Control offers the only credential for Infection Preventionists, which is CIC. The Organization for Safety, Asepsis, and Prevention is working on creating a credential for dental infection control, although there doesn’t...
Many pre-filled plastic syringes are intended for use on more than one patient and contain a variety of dental materials such as composite, etching kits, etc. Although the syringe is considered multi-patient use, the tips are disposable and are meant for use on one patient....
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