In the past, the term Nosocomial Infection was used to describe facility acquired infections; the newer term, Healthcare-associated Infections (HAI) is in use by Preventionists now.

In our last post we discussed many of the duties assigned to the ICP. One of the most important responsibilities is the surveillance program, which is a means of collecting patient data as it pertains to infection prevention and control.

Pertinent information about newly diagnosed infections, the clinical signs and symptoms supporting the diagnosis, and new orders for antibiotic treatments are reported on surveillance logs and then analyzed.

APIC and McGeer defines a Healthcare-associated infection (HAI) as one that develops more than 48 hours after admission. Conversely, a Community–associated infection is one that was present on admission or developed with-in 48 hours of admission.

A chronic infection is one present at the same site from 1-3 months. These are monitored by the ICP and nursing staff as are all other infections, but for the purposes of statistical reporting they are referred to as chronic rather than Healthcare-associated infections.

For statistical reporting McGeer’s Definitions of Infection for Surveillance in Long-term Care Facilities are generally recommended as a resource for analyzing and quantifying patient’s signs and symptoms. This information, in combination with reviewing of cultures and sensitivities, drug resistant organisms and anti-biotic usage, is recommended for monitoring and reporting infection rates.