Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) are acquired by patients during the course of receiving treatment for other conditions within a healthcare setting. HAIs are one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that in American hospitals alone, HAIs account for an estimated 1.7 million infections and 99,000 associated deaths each year.

 

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) - Division of Public Health received funding as part of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to provide for a sustainable state infrastructure on HAI prevention and for significant progress toward preventing HAIs.  The Nebraska DHHS has contracted with CIMRO of Nebraska to establish and conduct an evidence-based HAI prevention collaborative with hospitals in the state. Eighteen acute care hospitals have committed to participating. The Nebraska Hospital Association is a key partner in these collaborative activities. 

 

Central Line-Associated Blood Stream Infections and Surgical Site Infections are the two prevention topics that will be the focus of Nebraska collaborative efforts. Hospital teams will participate in learning sessions with educational presentations from local and national experts; best practices and strategies for overcoming barriers will be shared.