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

Original Publication:
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.