 The Current Situation
There is widespread public concern about healthcare associated infections (HAIs), particularly those such as MRSA that are resistant to standard antibiotics. HAIs cause additional pain and suffering for the patients who contract them, can significantly prolong their stay in hospital, and contribute to the deaths of some people.
In 2004 the Assembly Government launched Healthcare Associated Infection - A Strategy for Hospitals in Wales. The Strategy aims to support the reduction of HAIs in Wales. Consistent with the Assembly Government’s strategy, trusts have adopted different approaches to infection control tailored to local circumstances. Trusts experience differing rates of healthcare associated infection because of variability in infection control processes, suitability of facilities, standards of cleanliness, investment, surveillance methods, specialist staffing, prescribing practice, case mix and leadership.
Reducing rates of infection would have wide-ranging benefits for patients and NHS Wales. However, infections are caused by constantly changing and unpredictable micro organisms. Trusts require robust systems to prevent and control HAIs.
What Are We Doing?
We are looking into healthcare associated infections in Wales, to answer the main question:
“Are NHS Trusts doing the right things to minimise healthcare associated infection (now and in the future)?”
We also want to find out whether:
- NHS trusts are engaged and resourced to prevent and control healthcare associated infection (HAI)
- Arrangements are in place to prevent and control infections
- Information is used effectively to prevent and control infections?
In order to do this, we are conducting a survey of Chief Executives of acute trusts, and will be visiting a sample of four trusts to follow up themes covered by our surveys. We will also conduct a survey of Community Health Councils and will visit relevant Community Health Councils in the areas where we conduct follow-up visits.
What Happens Next?
This project will lead to a published national report about healthcare associated infection, which is likely to form the basis of an evidence session of the National Assembly’s Audit Committee.
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