Electronic Surveillance Systems for Infection Prevention and Control
Electronic Surveillance Systems for Infection Prevention and Control: Surveillance is the cornerstone to any successful infection control and prevention (ICP) program. At a minimum, it includes data mining for unusual microbes or clusters of pathogens, reporting public health diseases, and identifying targeted healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The ability for all ICP programs, regardless of size or complexity, to improve patient outcomes is dependent on the successfulness of their surveillance strategies. This article reviews two major approaches to surveillance: traditional manual methods and contemporary electronic methods.
Survey Reveals ESS Use and Experiences Among Infection Preventionists: ICT conducted a survey of infection preventionists regarding electronic surveillance systems (ESS). The survey found that 34 percent currently use an ESS at their facility, while 66 percent do not, and about 50 percent of survey respondents are considering the purchase of an ESS.
Industry Offers Advice on Evaluation and Purchasing of ESS: ICT asked members of industry to share pointers for evaluating and purchasing an ESS.
I Was There: An Infection Preventionist on the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 30th 2025Deep feelings run strong about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some beautiful art has come out of those emotions. Infection Control Today is proud to share this poem by Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC, in response to a recent article by Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
