Assessing The Effectiveness Of Nursing Practices In Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections In ICU Settings: A Comprehensive Review Of Government Hospitals

Abstract

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) in intensive care units (ICUs) pose significant risks to patient safety and healthcare outcomes, especially in government hospital settings where resources may be limited. This critical review evaluates the effectiveness of nursing practices aimed at preventing HAIs in such environments. Through an extensive literature review, we examine various nursing protocols, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental cleaning, and patient care procedures. The challenges faced by nursing staff, such as staffing shortages, training deficiencies, and resource constraints, are also discussed. The review highlights the correlation between rigorous nursing practices and reduced HAI rates, underscoring the need for continuous training, adequate staffing, and policy support in government hospitals. Recommendations for improving infection control practices include enhancing nurse education, implementing evidence-based protocols, and leveraging technological advances in patient care. The findings emphasize the critical role of nursing staff in infection prevention and control, suggesting that improving nursing practices can significantly impact the quality of care in ICU settings.