What is one of the key challenges in controlling HAIs in healthcare settings?

One of the key challenges in controlling healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in healthcare settings is the presence of resistant pathogens. Resistant pathogens, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and multidrug-resistant bacteria, pose significant difficulties because they are less susceptible to standard antibiotic treatments. This resistance can lead to increased rates of infection, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. The ability for these organisms to thrive and transfer in health settings exacerbates the difficulty of infection control measures.

Additionally, addressing resistant pathogens requires ongoing surveillance, more stringent infection prevention strategies, and the development of new antibiotics, which can be resource-intensive and complex to implement. This challenge necessitates not only a robust infection control program but also wider systemic changes in antibiotic prescribing practices and stewardship programs in healthcare facilities to effectively combat the spread of these organisms.