What role do healthcare workers play in infection control?

The role of healthcare workers in infection control is primarily focused on the prevention of infections, which is a fundamental aspect of their job duties. Healthcare workers are trained to implement various infection control measures such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, proper sterilization techniques, and understanding transmission pathways of infectious agents. These measures are essential to protect not only the patients but also the healthcare workers themselves and the broader community. By actively engaging in infection prevention practices, healthcare workers contribute significantly to reducing the incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), thereby enhancing overall patient safety and health outcomes. This proactive approach distinguishes their responsibilities within healthcare settings from merely monitoring or reacting to existing infections or ensuring cleanliness in non-clinical areas, which do not encompass the full scope of infection control responsibilities.