Some of our healthcare associated infections (HAI) prevention strategies include:
- Electronically-monitored hand hygiene for anyone who enters patient-care areas
- Cleaning methods that use ultraviolet technology to destroy highly-resistant organisms
- Programs and initiatives specifically designed to eliminate infections
Types of Healthcare Associated Infections
Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI)
A central line is a narrow tube inserted by a doctor into a large vein of a patient’s neck or chest to give important medical treatment. When not put in correctly or kept clean, central lines can become an easy way for germs to enter the body and cause serious infections in the blood.
Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI)
A catheter is a drainage tube that is inserted by a doctor into a patient’s urinary bladder through the urethra and is left in place to collect urine while a patient is immobile or incontinent. When not put in correctly or kept clean, or if left in place for long periods of time, catheters can become an easy way for germs to enter the body and cause serious infections in the urinary tract.
*Clostridium Difficile (C. diff.)
Clostridium difficile (C. diff.) is a type of bacteria that causes inflammation of the colon. C. diff. infection can cause severe diarrhea, fever, appetite loss, nausea, and abdominal pain. Hospital staff can prevent C. diff. from being transmitted to patients by taking certain precautions, like washing hands; using protective gloves and gowns; practicing responsible use of antibiotics; covering the mouth, nose, and eyes when appropriate; and sterilizing equipment between patients.*
Atlantic Health System Infection Prevention Data
View our latest quarterly data (lower is better):
- Morristown Medical Center
- Overlook Medical Center
- Newton Medical Center
- Chilton Medical Center
- Hackettstown Medical Center
*Source: Medicare.gov Hospital Compare