What is the primary goal of infection control practices?

The primary goal of infection control practices is to prevent and reduce the spread of infections in healthcare settings. This is crucial because healthcare environments, such as hospitals and clinics, often have vulnerable populations, including immunocompromised individuals who are at higher risk of acquiring infections. By implementing effective infection control measures—such as hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment, and proper sterilization techniques—healthcare facilities can minimize the transmission of pathogens, ensuring a safer environment for both patients and healthcare workers.

This focus on halting the spread of infections lays the foundation for overall patient safety, reduces morbidity and mortality rates associated with healthcare-associated infections, and improves outcomes in medical care. While improving patient satisfaction rates, increasing efficiency, and enhancing equipment quality may contribute to a better healthcare experience, they are secondary objectives that support the main aim of safeguarding health by controlling infections.