A Comprehensive Review of Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Infection prevention and control (IPC) is a central component of safe and high-quality healthcare. Healthcare-associated infections remain an important public health concern because they contribute to morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospitalisation, antimicrobial resistance and increased healthcare costs. This review synthesises key IPC practices used in healthcare settings, with emphasis on the chain of infection, standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, safe clinical procedures, environmental hygiene and occupational health measures. The review explains how interruption of any link in the chain of infection can reduce disease transmission. Core standard precautions include hand hygiene, appropriate use of personal protective equipment, respiratory hygiene, safe injection practices, environmental cleaning, reusable instrument processing, and safe management of linen and biomedical waste. Contact, droplet and airborne precautions are also discussed in relation to common infectious conditions and multidrug-resistant organisms. In addition, the review highlights the importance of surveillance, institutional IPC programmes, staff training, vaccination, post-exposure management and occupational health support. The findings indicate that IPC is not limited to individual practices but depends on consistent implementation, institutional commitment and continuous monitoring. Strengthening IPC systems can support safer care environments, protect patients and healthcare workers, and improve overall healthcare quality.