What is the primary purpose of infection control in healthcare?

The primary purpose of infection control in healthcare is to prevent the spread of infections. By implementing infection control measures, healthcare facilities aim to protect patients, staff, and visitors from healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) that can arise within clinical environments. These measures include hand hygiene protocols, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization and disinfection practices, and isolation procedures when necessary.

Preventing the spread of infections is critical not only for the safety of patients undergoing treatment but also for the overall functioning of healthcare systems. When infections are effectively controlled, it leads to improved patient outcomes, reduces the length of hospital stays, and decreases the overall burden on healthcare resources.

While managing patient flow, minimizing healthcare costs, and increasing patient diversity are important aspects of healthcare operations, they are secondary to the fundamental goal of maintaining an environment that minimizes the risk of infection. The focus on infection prevention acknowledges that even a single infection can have severe consequences for vulnerable populations receiving care, underscoring the primary objective of infection control initiatives.