Active Surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAI) implementation of monitoring and control procedures within the Internal Medicine U.O.C. of the Murgia Hospital - F. Perinei, Local Health Authority of Bari

Abstract

Introduction
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a highly significant issue in the context of public health and patient safety. The Italian Ministry of Health recommends that each Health Authority implemet procedures to monitor and control HAIs. In this context, the Local Health Authority of Bari has established the measures to be adopted in terms of active surveillance.
Objectives
To facilitate the implementation of these measures, an internal procedure has been developed at the Complex Operating Unit (U.O.C.) of Internal Medicine of the Murgia Hospital “F. Perinei” of the Local Health Authority of Bari.
Methods
A checklist has been designed to identify patients who should undergo surveillance swabbing for the detection of sentinel pathogens of organizational relevance, along with a summary of the organizational provisions.
Results
An operational protocol was drawn up which includes the following: a list of sentinel pathogens, operational checklist for conducting surveillance swabs, operational instructions based on swab results, isolation procedures and guidelines regarding hand hygiene, application of barrier precautions, environmental hygiene measures, and an information module for patients and caregivers.
Discussion
The rising incidence and prevalence of HAIs have made the implementation of preventive measures essential. The aim of this project work is to provide an operational protocol that summarizes the guidelines outlined in the organizational resolution for all healthcare workers of the U.O.C. of Internal Medicine at the Murgia Hospital “Fabio Perinei” of the Local Health Authority of Bari.
A checklist was developed to identify patients eligible for active surveillance swabbing to detect methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and carbapenem-resistant bacteria. It also outlines the operational procedures related to patient isolation, preparation of dedicated environments, hand and environmental hygiene standards, and the implementation of barrier precautions.
Conclusions
The aim of this project is to implement prevention, monitoring, and control measures for HAIs through the engagement of healthcare personnel and to meet the essential requirements for healthcare service accreditation.