THE ROLE OF THE NURSE IN INFECTION CONTROL IN CONTEMPORARY MEDICAL PRACTICE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/2411-1597.2025.3-4.15734Keywords:
infection control, healthcare-associated infections, antimicrobial resistance, asepsis, antisepsis, nurseAbstract
Introduction. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a serious challenge for modern healthcare, as they complicate underlying diseases, increase mortality, prolong hospitalization, and cause significant economic losses. Effective infection control is grounded in aseptic and antiseptic principles, standard precautions, and strict hygiene compliance. Nurses play a pivotal role in the practical implementation of these measures
The aim of the study – to conduct a review and thorough analysis of scientific literature and modern approaches regarding infection control in medical practice in different countries with a detailed disclosure of the importance of asepsis and antisepsis, to assess the role of the nurse as a specialist who implements the principles of epidemiological safety in medical institutions and is directly responsible for a safe medical environment for patients and medical staff.
The main part. Bibliographic and descriptive-analytical methods were applied. Sources were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, national electronic libraries, documents of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the World Health Organization, and professional nursing associations. Inclusion criteria comprised relevance, scientific validity, data on the nursing role in infection prevention, and practical significance. Analysis of Ukrainian and international practices showed that effective infection control requires a systemic approach, continuous professional education, and sufficient resources. Major challenges in Ukraine include limited funding, restricted access to modern equipment, and incomplete reporting of HAIs. The review highlights the critical importance of hand hygiene, rational use of personal protective equipment, adherence to sterilization and disinfection protocols, and epidemiological surveillance. Nurses perform a leading role by ensuring daily compliance with aseptic and antiseptic practices, maintaining hygiene, organizing patient care, and conducting educational activities for both staff and patients.
Conclusions. Adaptation of the Ukrainian healthcare system to international infection control standards is essential for enhancing patient and staff safety. Nurses remain central figures in implementing infection prevention strategies. Strengthening their competencies, ensuring compliance monitoring, and providing adequate resources are strategic priorities for reducing HAIs and improving the quality of medical care.
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