Main description:

The fifth edition of this classic text is the definitive, clinically orientated guide to a critical area within healthcare practice, full of sound, practical advice for all those involved in the control of infection in a variety of settings. Known in previous editions as Control of Hospital Infection, the new Ayliffe's Control of Healthcare-Associated Infection has again been brought up to date and thoroughly revised to emphasise the broader range of its coverage, from the hospital setting - including the ward, operating theatres, kitchens and laundry facilities - to health care provision in the community.

Returning readers will find that the content has also been restructured, improving access to related topics. Part One discusses the basic principles of infection control, including administrative issues, surveillance and reporting, sterilization, disinfection and decontamination, with an emphasis on the key area of hand hygiene. Part Two covers the specific areas of prophylaxis and treatment of infections. In Part Three prevention in different healthcare settings is presented, including issues particular to special wards and departments such as paediatric and neonatal units, intensive care, the elderly and those being treated or working within allied health areas such as x-ray, physiotherapy and the laboratory setting.

Ayliffe's Control of Healthcare-Associated Infection remains essential reading for all infection control practitioners, nurses, doctors, surgeons, allied health professionals, hospital managers and administrators, and public health personnel.

Contents:

Basic principles: Administration and responsibility. Surveillance, audit, records and reports. Sterilization. Physical and chemical disinfection. Decontamination of equipment, the environment and the skin. Laundry, kitchens and healthcare waste. Prophylaxis and treatment of infections: Use of antimicrobial agents. Control of bloodborne viral infections. Immunization and specific prophylaxis. The role of occupational health services in the control of infection. Special problems of infections. Prevention: Prevention of infection in wards and outpatient departments. Prevention of infection in special wards and departments. Prevention of infection in allied health areas and service departments. Infection prevention and control in the community.