Commission on infections, hospital hygiene and antibiotics policy: functions, activities, responsibilities

Abstract

Introduction. The Commission on Hospital Infection, Hospital Hygiene and Antibiotics Policy (IC) is essential in all hospitals. It has a clearly defined role, directed at the surveillance of hospital or nosocomial infection, including community infections and antibiotics policy.The aim of present study is to draw up a consensus document on the role of the IC. Methods. On the basis of an initial document, the different points of view were gathered of those responsible for the CIs of the 5 hospitals of the Navarra Health Service-Osasunbidea. All of those involved in the question: clinicians dedicated to infectious diseases, specialists in Preventive Medicine, Infections, Internal Medicine and Intensive Medicine. Results. A document was prepared that attempted to respond to this question which is of such transcendence for health in Navarra. Consensus was reached amongst all of the specialists who work on nososcomial infection concerning a common program that would serve as a general framework of activities, preserving the specific responsibilities of each of the specialised areas indicated. The basic function of the IC is to advise the directorate of the hospitals. In this respect, its composition should guarantee independence with regard to the bodies of the Hospital Management. Conclusion. The present denomination should be CI and Antibiotics Policy. There should be a medical structure dedicated to scientific-technical advice on questions of hospital infection within the area of the Autonomous Community of Navarra, and this should establish the guidelines for the Programs of Surveillance and Control of Infection in the hospitals of the Navarra Health Service-Osasunbidea. Putting this into practice requires the collaboration of all the hospital services.