Infection Surveillance System

What is an infection surveillance system?

An infection surveillance system is a platform that collects and oversees data related to infections. These infections are often nosocomial infections, otherwise known as healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The CDC gathers national data on nosocomial infections from hospitals that voluntarily participate.  

Healthcare organizations use surveillance components to assess patient groups for the development of infections.  

Why are infection surveillance systems important to healthcare?

Infection surveillance systems are important for healthcare because they help estimate and monitor the rate of infection and infection risk factors. With this information, healthcare organizations can develop the most efficient and effective strategies to prevent and reduce infections in the hospital.