Nosocomial Infections. What are they and how do you prevent them Research Paper

Nosocomial Infections. What are they and how do you prevent them - Research Paper Example On an average, it is estimated that the nosocomial infections affect up to 6 people out of every 100 patients who are admitted. In the year 1995, it was recorded that 88000 people succumbed to these infections and died. In the same year it was estimated that these infections served a burden of $4.5 billion of economic burden (Weinstein 1998). Nosocomial infections are preventable and there are many measures which can be implied. The first and foremost recommendation is that cleaning of the hands is very important and hand washing should be stressed upon. It is necessary to carry out invasive procedures like catheterization only in the instance if it is very important and proper methods are supposed to be used to prevent any infection. When urine is obtained for testing, it is necessary that cleanliness and proper hygienic measures are taken. The infected patients should be kept away from other patients to prevent spread of infection. Awareness regarding catheterization and hand washing should be stressed upon regularly. Sterilization of the instruments that are used on patients is important. Proper hygiene and cleanliness of the healthcare providers plus the patients should also be stressed upon. The hospital should be clean. Usage of gloves and masks should be employed where necessary. Aseptic conditions should be devel oped before drawing blood to prevent infections (Soule and Huskins 1997). Soule, B. M., & Huskins, W. C. (January 01, 1997). A global perspective on the past, present, and future of nosocomial infection prevention and control.  American Journal of Infection Control,  25,  4,