Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are preventable conditions that impose a substantial burden in terms of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Effective prevention and control of HAIs require an integrated organizational framework supported by strong governance, adequate human resources, robust surveillance systems, continuous education, and quality management. This review examines national and institutional organizational structures for HAI prevention and control, the roles and responsibilities of infection control committees and teams, surveillance systems, digital infrastructure, educational processes, and integration with quality management in light of current evidence. Examples from the World Health Organization, the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia are summarized, and Türkiye’s current status, strengths, and areas for further improvement are discussed. In conclusion, infection prevention and control programs should be strengthened through data-driven, sustainable approaches grounded in continuous improvement to achieve the goal of “zero preventable HAIs.”

Keywords: Healthcare-associated infections, infection control, infection prevention and control program, surveillance; patient safety, quality improvement