What is an essential step in maintaining the healthcare environment during an outbreak of an infectious disease?

An essential step in maintaining the healthcare environment during an outbreak of an infectious disease is the increased frequency of cleaning and disinfection. This practice is crucial because infectious diseases can spread rapidly in healthcare settings, and surfaces can serve as reservoirs for pathogens. By intensifying cleaning efforts, particularly on high-touch surfaces, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the risk of transmission among patients, visitors, and staff. Effective disinfection protocols help to destroy pathogens and create a safer environment, which is vital during an outbreak when the risk of infection is heightened.

Options that focus on air fresheners, minimizing employee breaks, or limiting patient check-ups do not directly address the immediate need for heightened safety and cleanliness. While a pleasant-smelling environment or employee availability can be factors in overall care, they do not contribute effectively to controlling the spread of infectious diseases in the same critical way that increased cleaning and disinfection does.