What is the primary goal of performance monitoring in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices?

The primary goal of performance monitoring in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices is to track adherence to IPC practices. This involves consistently evaluating how well healthcare staff and the facility are following established protocols designed to minimize the risk of infections. By monitoring adherence, facilities can identify gaps in practice, ensure that evidence-based guidelines are being implemented effectively, and promote a culture of safety and compliance among staff.

Tracking adherence is vital because it directly correlates with infection rates and the overall safety of residents. Continuous monitoring can also help in providing feedback and training where needed, thereby improving the quality of care provided to residents. This focus on adherence ensures robust protective measures are in place, ultimately reducing morbidity and mortality associated with infections in nursing homes.

In contrast, while counting the total number of infections, measuring staff compliance with training, and evaluating treatment effectiveness are all relevant components of an infection control program, they serve as secondary aspects to the more critical function of monitoring adherence to IPC practices, which is foundational to effective infection prevention.