Infection Control Today, January/February 2024 (Vol. 28 No. 1)

Infection Control Today's® Product Locator is a monthly column highlighting some of the latest advanced technology in the infection prevention field.

The field of health care has placed a great emphasis on infection prevention in recent years, making it imperative for professionals in this domain to obtain certifications and additional training. These credentials verify their expertise and enable them to gain access to better job prospects and higher earning potential.

The journey of pregnancy begins long before conception, with a woman's lifestyle choices profoundly influencing her future child's health. From diet to infection prevention, proactive measures are crucial.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending February 11, 2024.

In the 19th century, Ignaz Semmelweis pioneered hand hygiene, proving its effectiveness in reducing infections. Ambulatory care settings stress its importance, emphasizing proper technique and cultural integration for optimal health outcomes.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending February 4, 2024.

In a world grappling with climate change and infectious diseases, emotional well-being plays a crucial role. Emotional intelligence is key, addressing the toll on health care professionals managing infectious diseases amid climate change.

Infection preventionists Heather Saunders and Stephanie Mayoryk's journey to East Africa emphasizes the positive impact of infection prevention efforts in low-income countries. Despite challenges, their experience encourages IPs to engage globally, fostering hope and passion for providing excellent patient care.

Take 5 minutes to catch up on Infection Control Today®’s highlights for the week ending January 28, 2024.

AAMI's ST91 standard for endoscope processing covers design, cleaning, personnel, decontamination, storage, transport, quality control, repair, new product evaluation, and more.

Bug of the Month helps educate readers about existing and emerging pathogens of clinical importance in health care facilities today.

After pushback on social media, Tina Joshi, PhD, spoke with Infection Control Today to clarify and explain her study, her lifelong research, and what she hopes IPs and other IPC personnel can take from them.

Dr. Gail Gazelle's "Mindful MD" addresses health care burnout with mindfulness, imposter syndrome, and other issues offering practical solutions and strategies for health care professionals.

As tropical viruses increase in the US, Infection Control Today wanted to learn more about chikungunya. Here is what we learned.

According to a recent study, bleach fails to eradicate C difficile spores in hospital scrubs, raising concerns about disinfectant efficacy and bacterial resistance in health care settings.

An interview with an infectious diseases expert on how respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) impacts populations, current treatments, and best methods for prevention.

A recent study in the American Journal of Infection Control reveals errors in infection prevention adherence among health care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of improved training.

A critical analysis questions the universal application of contact precautions (CP) for MRSA prevention, considering potential harms, environmental sustainability, and evidence-based alternatives.

Learn about vital vaccination recommendations during pregnancy to prevent respiratory diseases like RSV, COVID-19, and influenza. NFID's Robert H. Hopkins, Jr. MD, offers insights and strategies for effective communication.

A recent study from Chapel Hill, NC, shows some bloodstream infections are reduced by nearly 50% when trained nurse observers assist catheter insertion teams.

This interview with Cheron Rojo, BS, FCS, CHL, CIS, CER, CFER, CRCST, delves into a robust year-long study, starting in 2021, investigating the often-overlooked risks associated with insulated medical devices impacting both patients and medical staff.