From advanced sterilization methods to combating antimicrobial resistance, Infection Control Today’s top articles of 2024 delivered actionable strategies for safer healthcare environments and improved patient outcomes.
Top 7 ICT articles of 2024
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Infection Control Today® (ICT®) provides the latest news and studies on infection prevention and control. In 2024, ICT continued as a trusted resource, publishing hundreds of articles tailored for infection preventionists, sterile processing technologists, epidemiologists, and environmental hygienists.
These articles addressed critical topics like emerging pathogens, sterilization protocols, environmental hygiene best practices, and innovative tools to ensure patient and caregiver safety. By providing actionable insights and evidence-based strategies, ICT empowers health care professionals to enhance infection prevention measures in their facilities. With its extensive content, ICT remains an essential ally for those at the forefront of health care, ensuring safer environments and improved patient and staff outcomes.
Let’s revisit ICT’s top articles of 2024!
Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers Ineffective Against Norovirus: Effective Alternatives and Infection Control Strategies
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not protect against norovirus, a highly contagious virus. Effective alternatives like hypochlorous acid-based sanitizers are crucial for better infection control.
Understanding AAMI ST108:2023: Essential Guide to New Water Quality Standards in Health Care
Water, essential in health care, from hygiene to medical procedures. AAMI's ST108 sets new standards, vital for patient safety and equipment integrity.
Dengue Epidemic in Puerto Rico? What Should Visitors and Residents Know
Puerto Rico declared a dengue public health emergency with 549 cases this year, up from 1293 in 2023. What should visitors and residents know to protect themselves?
Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on Personality and Brain Function: A Grim Reality or a Wake-Up Call?
Opinion: Kevin Kavanagh, MD, examines a summary of studies on how COVID-19 may damage the brain's frontal lobes, alter personality traits and cognitive functions, and potentially reshape society's dynamics.
Understanding and Mitigating H5N1, Avian Flu Risks in Cattle and Beyond: Insights from Ramon Zegpi Lagos, DVM, PhD Ramon Zegpi Lagos, DVM, PhD, discusses H5N1 (avian flu), risks, transmission dynamics, preventive measures, and ongoing research at The Ohio State University.
Addressing Sterile Processing Instrument Errors With Advanced Technology and Data Insights
Surgical instrument errors, often linked to visualization failures during sterile processing, pose significant risks to patient safety and OR efficiency. Advanced technologies, including AI, are essential for reducing these errors and improving overall outcomes in sterile processing departments.
IP LifeLine: Keeping it Together When Things Fall Apart: Maintaining Balance When Life Gets Messy
Balancing personal struggles and professional responsibilities during crises requires self-awareness, self-compassion, healthy boundaries, and support networks. Embrace these strategies to navigate and overcome challenges.
Second Strain of Bird Flu Found in US Dairy Cows: What It Means for Infection Prevention and Control
February 7th 2025A new H5N1 strain was found in Nevada dairy cows, challenging earlier transmission theories. This raises concerns about animal vulnerability, human health risks, and food safety. Experts emphasize the need for improved surveillance, biosecurity, and cross-sector collaboration to contain the virus spread.
Fungal Infections: The Silent Epidemic Threatening Global Health
February 6th 2025Fungal infections are a rising global threat, with antifungal resistance complicating treatment. Neil J. Clancy, MD, emphasizes the urgent need for research, better diagnostics, and stronger infection prevention strategies.
Hiding in Plain Sight: The Most Harmful and Costly Hospital-Acquired Infection
February 5th 2025Nonventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP) is a deadly, overlooked infection impacting patient outcomes. With new diagnostic tools and prevention strategies, hospitals must prioritize oral hygiene to reduce risk.