What is the main purpose of infection control committees in healthcare facilities?

The main purpose of infection control committees in healthcare facilities is to oversee and manage infection control policies and practices. These committees are essential in promoting a safe healthcare environment by monitoring infection rates, developing guidelines to minimize the risk of infections, and ensuring compliance with established safety protocols. This role is critical because effective infection control can prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections, protect patients and staff, and maintain accreditation standards within healthcare organizations.

Infection control committees typically consist of a multidisciplinary team, including infection control practitioners, epidemiologists, and representatives from various departments. They analyze data related to infection outbreaks, conduct surveillance, and implement infection prevention strategies, making their focus on managing infection control policies and practices central to their mission.