A: Descriptive Statistics

Author(s):
Daniel Bronson-Lowe, PhD, CIC, FAPIC Senior Clinical Manager

Baxter International Inc.
Urbana, IL

Christina Bronson-Lowe, PhD, CCC-SLP, CLD Speech-language pathologist

Urbana, IL

Revised Publication:
November 18, 2020
Original Publication:
October 2, 2014
Declarations of Conflicts of Interest:
  • Christina Bronson-Lowe reports no conflicts of interest.
  • Daniel Bronson-Lowe reports no conflicts of interest.

Abstract

Descriptive statistics are a vital tool for examining data and guiding decision-making. This chapter focuses on the purpose, interpretation, and use of descriptive statistics and data visualization in the field of infection prevention and control (IPC). Effective IPC requires understanding statistical analyses and data presentation, which transform data into useful information to support decisions about interventions, resource allocation, patient safety, and more.