Prevention

In this installment of IP Lifeline, Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC, in uncertain times, encourages us to focus on what we can control, adapt to challenges, trust our values, and keep moving forward. Together, we can navigate any storm.

Antibiotic stewardship in long-term care facilities relies on McGeer and Loeb criteria to guide infection surveillance and appropriate prescribing, ensuring better outcomes for residents and reducing resistance.

Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax are protozoan parasites linked to periodontal disease. Emerging research highlights their role in oral inflammation, tissue destruction, and worsening gum disease.

For Rare Disease Month, Rebecca Leach, MPH, BSN, RN, CIC, writes on Nipah virus, a rare but deadly zoonotic disease that poses a significant public health threat. With high mutation potential and no cure, prevention and awareness are critical.

Black History Month should celebrate pioneers like Drs William Hinton, Daniel Hale Williams, and Charles Drew, whose medical breakthroughs revolutionized infection prevention, surgery, and blood preservation.

Health care–associated infections like CLABSIs and CAUTIs threaten patient safety. Learn evidence-based strategies, new technologies, and prevention protocols to reduce these infections and improve outcomes.

Dr. Saskia v. Popescu examines the latest on measles, avian flu, an unidentified infectious disease in Democratic Republic of Congo, and more.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) presents significant challenges for infection control. Learn best practices for safe instrument disposal, reprocessing, and compliance with CDC and WHO guidelines.

A silent invader lurks in health care settings, exploiting human oversights to spread. Discover how vigilance, hand hygiene, and disinfection can stop infections before they begin.

Infection preventionists juggle constant challenges, often feeling overwhelmed. Learn how simple breathing and grounding techniques can help calm the chaos and restore focus.

During Black History Month, we honor the resilience and contributions of Black medical professionals in health care. Despite barriers, they have led transformative changes, advocating for equitable access and medical excellence. Recognizing their impact ensures a more inclusive health care future for all.

Despite claims of health benefits, raw milk poses serious infection risks. Pathogens like E coli and Listeria can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations.

The Advanced Leadership Certification in Infection Prevention (AL-CIP) validates leadership, expertise, and strategic decision-making in infection control. Learn why top professionals pursue this certification and how it enhances careers, and apply for yours today!

The 160th CDS Midwinter Meeting showcased dental advancements, scientific courses, and infection control discussions, drawing nearly 25,000 attendees and highlighting innovations, oral pathology, and patient safety strategies.

Herpes infections pose significant risks in dentistry. JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, PhD, presented prevention, treatment, occupational hazards, and a potential breakthrough in gene therapy that could revolutionize herpes management at the Midwinter Meeting.

The Chicago Dental Society honored Dr. Joseph Hagenbruch and Dr. Mark Lingen for their leadership, research, and dedication to advancing dentistry and improving oral health care access.

Sherrie Busby, EDDA, CDSO, CDIPC, shares her journey from dental assisting to infection control advocacy, highlighting her passion for education, her role at Heartland Dental, and her exciting transition to a new chapter.

Dr. Saskia Popescu discusses how the US faces mounting public health chaos—CDC layoffs, H5N1 missteps, a false Ebola scare, and rising infections—highlighting the urgent need for stronger disease preparedness.

Doris Schneider, senior marketing manager for North America for W&H North America, shares insights into the 160th Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, showcasing the Lexa Mini rapid sterilizer and Synea Power Edition handpiece, designed for efficient sterilization and effortless dental procedures.

Cutting NIH’s budget by 15% threatens U.S. leadership in medical research, weakens public health preparedness, hinders innovation, and undermines economic growth. Investing in science secures America’s future.

AL-CIP certification validates leadership in infection prevention, unlocking career growth and credibility. Hear from certified professionals on its impact and why you should apply today before applications close on February 28, 2025!

Proper glove use is crucial in health care settings to prevent infections. Guidelines from TJC, CDC, and WHO stress correct selection, usage, and disposal to minimize health care–associated infections (HAIs) and cross-contamination risks. Infection preventionists (IPs) play a key role in educating staff, enforcing compliance, and improving patient safety through standardized glove practices.

The Trump administration’s decision to terminate nearly 1,300 CDC employees weakens America’s public health defenses, jeopardizes critical research, and endangers the nation’s preparedness for future health crises.

Launching a hospital-wide program for non-ventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP) necessitates a clear structure and toolkit.

GermZAPP is an affordable hand hygiene system designed to educate, monitor, and encourage adherence in schools, nursing homes, and health care settings, effectively addressing gaps in infection control.

APIC congratulates Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr on his appointment and urges support for infection prevention priorities, including NHSN funding, workforce development, nursing home IPC improvements, medical device cleaning standards, and global health collaboration.

Twelve universities and 3 education groups filed a lawsuit against the NIH and HHS, challenging a 15% cap on research grant funding. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order, halting the cuts while litigation proceeds. A hearing is set for February 21, 2025, and states and institutions are pushing for permanent relief.

This Hot Topics in IPC updates you on the US Public Health Policy, Influenza, and so much more!

Here is what you need to know about the National Institutes of Health capping indirect cost rates for research funding.

Burnout among infection preventionists is a growing crisis exacerbated by the pandemic. This personal reflection highlights the emotional toll, systemic challenges, and urgent need for support.