Surveillance is of paramount significance in infection prevention programs. This chapter discusses the history, evolution, and critical elements of surveillance programs in healthcare settings to improve patient safety and quality improvement. It outlines the steps that should be used when designing and evaluating a surveillance program. Furthermore, the chapter highlights electronic surveillance systems and the impact to the surveillance program and resource allocation. It also emphasizes the importance of using sound epidemiological and statistical principles. This chapter reviews factors that affect surveillance programs in healthcare facilities, such as compliance and accreditation requirements, public reporting, emerging and reemerging infectious diseases, outbreaks and pandemics, and mandatory reporting requirements.

This chapter provides an overview of the basic principles, terms, and definitions used in surveillance programs in healthcare settings. It also discusses surveillance methodologies, using surveillance data for performance improvement, and the use of information technology, in addition to a list of supplemental resources for obtaining additional information.