What is the primary goal of infection control in healthcare?

The primary goal of infection control in healthcare is to minimize and remove disease-causing microorganisms. This involves implementing strategies and practices that prevent the spread of infections among patients, healthcare workers, and visitors. Effective infection control helps to protect vulnerable populations, particularly those with weakened immune systems, and maintain a safe environment within healthcare settings.

By focusing on minimizing and removing pathogens, infection control measures such as hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization of medical equipment, and proper waste disposal can significantly decrease the incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This not only improves patient outcomes but also contributes to overall public health by reducing the burden of infectious diseases.

While minimizing healthcare costs, ensuring patient satisfaction, and increasing patient throughput are important considerations in healthcare management, they are not the primary focus of infection control. Infection control must take precedence to safeguard patient health and safety, which ultimately supports the sustainability and efficacy of healthcare systems.