Reducing hospital-acquired infections in the NICU: Nurse-led quality improvement strategies

Infection control is crucial in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to protect high-risk neonates from healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This review scrutinizes nurse-led quality improvement approaches and use of innovative technologies to decrease and prevent infection in NICUs. Essentials of nurse-led initiatives include continuous education, care bundle implementation, and peer-to-peer training, all of which have shown significant effectiveness in reduction of infection rates, especially for central line-associated bloodstream infections(CLABSIs). Innovative technologies, such as antimicrobial surfaces, automated hand hygiene monitoring and electronic monitoring systems have demonstrated beneficial results in improving adherence and lowering infection rates. Despite these new advancements, there are numerous challenges faced in implementing infection control, include limited resources, such as shortage in staff, personal protective equipment, and a lack of proper infrastructure, particularly in resource-limited settings. Effective prevention of infection in NICUs depends on a combination of nurse-led initiatives and innovative technological approaches.