ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF INFECTION CONTROL MEASURES IN REDUCING HEALTHCARE-ASSOCIATED INFECTIONS IN THE EMERGENCY SETTING: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) represent a persistent challenge in emergency departments (EDs), where high patient turnover and urgent care delivery complicate adherence to infection prevention protocols.

Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of infection control measures in reducing HAIs in emergency settings, focusing on interventions such as hand hygiene initiatives, educational programs, infection control bundles, and surveillance systems.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across major databases following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Fifteen peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and 2025 were included. Eligible studies involved human subjects in ED or ICU settings, assessed infection control interventions, and reported outcomes related to HAI incidence, compliance rates, or patient experiences.

Results: Across included studies, baseline compliance with infection control practices was low, with hand hygiene adherence ranging from 41.3% to 66.7%. Interventions such as targeted education and hand hygiene initiatives improved compliance by up to 30 percentage points, while care bundles significantly enhanced nursing performance in CLABSI prevention (65.2% to 88.7%). Infection control teams and structured surveillance systems reduced the incidence of device-associated HAIs and multidrug-resistant organisms. However, systemic barriers, overcrowding, and workload pressures continued to limit sustained improvements. Patient isolation, while effective, was associated with increased ED length of stay and lower satisfaction.

Conclusion: Infection control measures can significantly reduce HAIs in emergency settings, but effectiveness depends on addressing both behavioral and systemic barriers. Multidisciplinary, sustained approaches integrating education, monitoring, and stewardship are essential to ensure safe and effective infection prevention in emergency care environments.