What is the most effective method for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs)?

Proper hand hygiene practice is recognized as the most effective method for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This is due to the fact that hand hygiene minimizes the transmission of pathogens that can occur through direct contact with patients or contaminated surfaces. Effective hand washing or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers removes or kills microorganisms, significantly reducing the risk of infections.

While regular disinfection of surfaces, the use of protective equipment, and patient isolation play important roles in infection prevention, they are not as universally effective or as foundational as hand hygiene. For example, even with thoroughly disinfected surfaces and appropriate equipment, if healthcare providers or caregivers do not practice proper hand hygiene, the risk of transmitting infections remains high.

Therefore, prioritizing hand hygiene serves as a primary line of defense against HAIs, making it essential in the overall strategy for infection control in healthcare settings.