A CROSS-DEPARTMENTAL INFECTION CONTROL MODEL: CONTRIBUTIONS OF DENTAL PRACTITIONERS, RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGISTS, NURSES, LAB PROFESSIONALS, AND HEALTH ASSISTANTS IN QUALITY IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

Introduction: Ensuring patient safety and minimizing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are critical components of quality healthcare delivery. Traditional infection control measures, when implemented in isolated departments, often fail to achieve optimal outcomes due to fragmented practices, poor communication, and lack of standardized protocols. The adoption of a cross-departmental infection control model, integrating the efforts of nurses, dental practitioners, radiologic technologists, laboratory professionals, and health assistants, provides a comprehensive solution to enhance patient safety, operational efficiency, and quality of care (Gould & Moralejo, 2020; Smith & Pittet, 2022).

Aim of Work: To examine how a coordinated, multidisciplinary infection control approach can reduce HAIs, improve adherence to standardized protocols, optimize resource utilization, and foster a culture of safety within healthcare facilities.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies on cross-departmental infection control, interprofessional collaboration, and hospital quality improvement initiatives. Emphasis was placed on the roles of each professional group, the integration of environmental and behavioral interventions, and the ethical and operational considerations associated with implementing hospital-wide infection control strategies (Alamri et al., 2025; Howthan et al., 2025; Al-Hrenat, 2021).

Results: Findings indicate that collaborative infection control models significantly enhance compliance with hygiene and sterilization protocols, improve patient outcomes, reduce the incidence of HAIs, and strengthen adherence to national and international accreditation standards. Inclusion of all levels of healthcare personnel, from clinical staff to support staff, fosters consistent monitoring, early detection of outbreaks, and rapid response, while ethical and operational challenges—such as workload distribution and staff training—require structured management (Fan et al., 2025; Zarzaur et al., 2020; Pandeiroot, Niode, & Rampengan, 2023).

Conclusion: Implementing a cross-departmental infection control model with active participation from nurses, dental practitioners, radiologic technologists, laboratory professionals, and health assistants is essential for sustainable quality improvement, enhanced patient safety, and efficient hospital operations. Although operational, ethical, and training challenges exist, structured collaboration and clear protocols ensure measurable reductions in infection rates and improved healthcare outcomes.