Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)

Infections acquired by patients while receiving healthcare treatment in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, or other healthcare facilities.

 

Nosocomial Infection

Another term for Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), referring specifically to infections acquired in hospitals or other healthcare settings.

 

Pathogen

A microorganism (such as bacteria, virus, fungus, or parasite) capable of causing disease in humans.

 

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

The ability of microorganisms to resist the effects of medications, leading to treatment failure and the persistence of infections.

 

Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI)

An HAI that occurs when bacteria or other pathogens enter the bloodstream through a central line catheter, resulting in bloodstream infection.

 

Surgical Site Infection (SSI)

An infection that occurs after surgery in the part of the body where the surgery took place, ranging from superficial infections of the skin to deeper infections involving tissues and organs.

 

Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI)

An HAI that occurs when bacteria or other pathogens enter the urinary tract through a urinary catheter, leading to infection.

 

Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP)

An HAI that develops in patients who are on mechanical ventilation, typically caused by bacteria entering the lungs through the breathing tube.

 

Environmental Cleaning

The process of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of HAIs.

 

Hand Hygiene

The practice of washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer to remove pathogens and prevent the transmission of infections in healthcare settings.