Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections

 

Surveillance of Nosocomial Infections

Surveillance of nosocomial infection is the foundation for organizing and maintaining an infection control program. Information obtained from surveillance data is a useful tool in identifying areas of priority and allocating resources accordingly.

Objectives of Surveillance

·       Reducing the infection rates within health care facilities.

·       Establishing endemic infection rates.

·       Identifying outbreaks.

·       Convincing medical personnel to adopt recommended preventive practices.

·       Evaluating control measures.

Targeted surveillance aimed at high risk areas is more effective and manageable. It can be site specific, unit specific, or outbreak associated surveillance.