Original Research Article

Study of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs)

*Dr. P. H. Mishra, Dr. Pallavi Banerjee and Heema Gosain

Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, C Block, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi-110070, India

*Corresponding Author E-mail: paramhansmishra@yahoo.com

Accepted October 07, 2014

Abstract

Management of Hospital Acquired infection is a very important aspect of health care management. A nosocomial infection affects approximately 2 million patients annually in acute care facilities in our country and their annual patient care costs several millions of rupees. Studies show that nearly one-third of nosocomial infections can be prevented by a well organized infection control program. But only less than 10% are actually prevented. Health-care waste is an important source of HAI and should be considered as a reservoir of pathogenic microorganisms, which can cause contamination and give rise to infection. If waste is inadequately managed, these microorganisms can be transmitted by direct contact, air or by a variety of vectors. Infectious waste contributes in this way to the risk of nosocomial infections, putting the health of hospital personnel, and patients, at risk. The aim of the Hospital Infection Control Program is dissemination of information, surveillance activities, investigation, prevention and control of nosocomial infections in the hospitals.

Keywords: Hospital Acquired infection, Hospital Infection Control Committee, Hospital Waste Management