Infection Prevention: A Critical Standard for Healthcare Facilities

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is a fundamental pillar of patient safety and quality healthcare. Effective IPC programs protect patients, healthcare workers, and visitors while reducing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), antimicrobial resistance, and preventable complications According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strong infection prevention practices—such as hand hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental cleaning, and continuous surveillance—are essential to reducing infection risks and healthcare costs The UK National Health Service (NHS) emphasizes that infection prevention is a core responsibility of every healthcare facility. Consistent adherence to IPC policies prevents cross-transmission, supports safe care delivery, and ensures compliance with national and international standards. Infection prevention is not optional. It is a regulatory, ethical, and professional obligation that underpins safe, high-quality healthcare in all settings