Long-Term Care

Author(s):
Mandy Bodily-Bartrum, RN, MPH, CIC Director of Quality and Risk Management

Vibra Hospital & Vista View Care Center
Thornton, CO

Janet Franck, RN, MBA, CIC Infection Preventionist/Consultant

Chicago, IL

Linda Spaulding, RN, BC, CIC InCo and Associates International, Inc.

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Jolynn Zeller, RN, BSN, CIC Coordinator, Infection Prevention

Avera St. Luke's
Plymouth, MN

Published:
October 2, 2014

Abstract

Long-term care facilities function in a unique setting along the postacute continuum of care. Federal, state, and local government authorities have regulatory standards for infection prevention in this setting. Long-term care facility residents are at high risk for developing infections. Infections in this setting account for a large number of acute hospital transfers, mortality, and increased costs. The infection preventionist in the long-term care facility should be knowledgeable about regulatory compliance issues and have a basic understanding of surveillance, evidence-based practices, and interventions to reduce risk. Infection prevention activities across all departments are important to ensure that safe and quality care is given to residents within the long-term care facility setting.