Healthcare-associated infections – and the best ways to prevent them

On busy days, it's easy to skip the routines we all know matter – not out of neglect, but because time is short, priorities shift and there are often more urgent needs to take care of. Still, protection starts with awareness. On this page, you'll learn what HAIs are, how they spread and how to help minimise the risk - for your patients, your colleagues and yourself.

What are healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs)?

In the healthcare industry, the risk of viruses and infections is ever present. As WHO explains, HAIs are 'Healthcare-associated infection (HAI), also referred to as "nosocomial" or "hospital" infection, is an infection occurring in a patient during the process of care in a hospital or other healthcare facility…'. HAIs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other pathogens, and are often linked to procedures such as catheter insertions, surgeries, or mechanical ventilation.

However, another major factor is cross-contamination—when bacteria or viruses are unintentionally transferred from one surface, patient, or object to another. This can happen when reusable equipment, carts, or hygiene tools are moved between rooms without proper disinfection.

Many of these infections are preventable through appropriate hygiene, disposable equipment, and safe handling practices.

While it is crucial to understand what HAIs are, knowing why infection prevention matters is just as important. The impact of healthcare-acquired infections goes far beyond individual patients - it affects healthcare workers, entire facilities, and even the broader healthcare system.

Some of the most common healthcare-associated infections include:

Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) – infections at or near surgical incisions
Norovirus – a highly contagious virus that spreads quickly in care environments, often via surfaces or hand contact
Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) – bacteria causing severe diarrhea, often linked to antibiotic use
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – frequently associated with catheter use
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) – antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can infect wounds, skin, or the bloodstream

These are just some of the most common infections seen in healthcare settings – many others can occur depending on the environment, procedures, and patient vulnerability.

Why is infection prevention critical in healthcare?

Infection prevention is a cornerstone of safe, high-quality care in every healthcare setting. When effective measures are in place, they not only safeguard patients but also protect healthcare workers and ensure that the healthcare system remains effective and resilient.

HAI's impact on patients, staff, and systems

For patients, healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) can lead to longer recovery times, additional interventions, emotional distress, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications.
For staff, exposure to infectious agents increases occupational risk, especially in high-contact environments. This can lead to higher absenteeism, added mental strain, and potential spread beyond the facility.
For healthcare systems, infections result in increased demand on resources, extended hospital stays, and higher costs - financially and operationally.

The good news is that many HAIs are preventable. Prevention starts with simple, consistent practices such as hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and the correct use of protective wear - and crucially, avoiding cross-contamination during patient care and equipment handling. When paired with early identification of risks - such as recognising when isolation protocols or additional precautions are needed - these measures significantly reduce transmission and improve outcomes.

Practical tips to help prevent infections

Preventing HAIs requires a multi-faceted approach. These practical strategies may seem simple, but they play a powerful role in reducing infection risks.

1. Hand hygiene – the first line of defence

We are all aware of the importance of basic hand hygiene. However, in the rush of a busy shift, it can be easy to overlook the basics. Still, proper hand hygiene remains one of the most effective ways to help prevent the spread of infections and avoid cross-contamination. Whether you're caring for a patient or stepping between tasks, regular hand cleaning makes a difference.

Use alcohol-based hand rubs or wash with soap and water:

Before and after patient contact
After touching potentially contaminated surfaces
After removing gloves

Ensure hands are completely dry before putting on gloves or other protective wear. Also, be sure to keep your own skin healthy - dry or irritated skin can make it harder to maintain consistent hand hygiene.

2. Protective wear – your barrier against infections

Protective wear serves as a barrier between pathogens and skin, clothing, and between the healthcare professional and patient. It's a simple but important step in everyday infection prevention.

This includes:

Surgical masks
Face shields or goggles
Isolation gowns and aprons
Protective caps and shoe covers

Always use protective wear based on the level of exposure risk - and remove it in the correct order to help avoid contamination.

3. Gloves – more than just a layer of protection

Gloves are essential when there's a risk of contact with blood, body fluids, or contaminated surfaces. But they're not a substitute for hand hygiene - always clean your hands before putting gloves on and after taking them off.

Choose the right type of medical glove for the task at hand: Latex, nitrile, or vinyl. Each material offers different levels of protection, comfort, and durability - so matching the glove to the situation matters.

Preventing healthcare-acquired infections isn't just about protocols; it's about building habits that protect everyone involved. With the right measures in place, each routine task becomes an opportunity to prevent harm and promote wellbeing. At ABENA, we believe that infection prevention is an everyday commitment to safer, more dignified care. Contact us today for guidance and recommendations in fighting healthcare-associated infections.

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