The Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance (HAI/AR) Program in Washington State ensures the monitoring and validation of data on reportable HAIs in hospitals. Starting from January 2020, Washington State updated its reporting requirements for healthcare-associated infections, now including five reportable HAIs. The CDC’s webpage provides more information on each infection. Let’s take a closer look at the HAI reporting requirements, reports and dashboards, and the role of the HAI Epidemiology team.
HAI Reporting Requirements
To effectively combat healthcare-associated infections, it is crucial to understand the reporting requirements. Washington State’s hospitals are required to report information about certain HAIs using the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) system. The five reportable HAIs are:
- Catheter-associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI)
- Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI)
- Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection with positive laboratory identification
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia with positive laboratory identification
- Surgical Site Infection (SSI) following an Abdominal Hysterectomy (SSI-HYST) or Colon Surgery (SSI-COLO)
Each infection is represented by a graphic indicating its location within the body. For detailed information on these conditions, visit the CDC’s webpage.
HAI Reports and Dashboards
The HAI Epidemiology team plays a crucial role in monitoring reported HAIs, providing technical support to healthcare facilities on the use of NHSN, and partnering with healthcare facilities to reduce preventable infections associated with healthcare.
Additionally, HAI reports and dashboards are important tools in analyzing and understanding healthcare-associated infections. They provide valuable insights into the prevalence, trends, and patterns of HAIs, empowering healthcare professionals to take appropriate measures to prevent and control infections.
FAQs
Q: What are the reportable HAIs in Washington State?
A: Washington State requires hospitals to report the following HAIs: Catheter-associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI), Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection (CLABSI), Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection with positive laboratory identification, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia with positive laboratory identification, and Surgical Site Infection (SSI) following an Abdominal Hysterectomy (SSI-HYST) or Colon Surgery (SSI-COLO).
Q: How does the HAI Epidemiology team support healthcare facilities?
A: The HAI Epidemiology team provides technical support to healthcare facilities on the use of NHSN, monitors reported HAIs, and partners with healthcare facilities to reduce preventable infections associated with healthcare.
Conclusion
Monitoring and reporting healthcare-associated infections is crucial for preventing and controlling the spread of infections within healthcare facilities. By adhering to the reporting requirements, healthcare professionals can identify trends, implement effective prevention strategies, and ultimately improve patient safety. The HAI Epidemiology team’s support and the availability of HAI reports and dashboards further contribute to the overall goal of reducing HAIs. For more information, visit Instant Global News.