The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) recently released its first annual Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Report. The report was developed as part of a national effort to reduce HAIs and improve healthcare quality.Â
Indianas report contains state-mandated infection data from 119 hospitals reporting central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in adult, pediatric, and neonatal intensive care units; catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) in adult and pediatric intensive care units; and surgical site infections (SSI) associated with abdominal hysterectomies and colon surgeries. Indiana hospitals reported 41 percent fewer CLABSIs than predicted based on national data, as well as 39 percent fewer SSIs associated with abdominal hysterectomies. There was no significant change since baseline in the number of SSIs associated with colon surgeries. The number of CAUTIs reported was 12 percent higher than predicted based on national data.
The ISDH says it is committed to preventing infections and will continue to monitor and report HAI data. This initial report will serve as a benchmark for infection prevention efforts in Indiana hospitals, while future reports will show progress towards state and national prevention goals.Â
The 2012 HAI Report may be found on the ISDH website at http://www.in.gov/isdh/files/2012_Indiana_Healthcare_Associated_Infections_Report.pdf.Â
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.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
Phage Therapy’s Future: Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance With Precision Viruses
April 24th 2025Bacteriophage therapy presents a promising alternative to antibiotics, especially as antimicrobial resistance continues to increase. Dr. Ran Nir-Paz discusses its potential, challenges, and future applications in this technology.