What is the main goal of infection prevention and control?

The main goal of infection prevention and control is to minimize the risk of infections in patients and staff. This focus is essential as healthcare-associated infections can lead to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and even mortality. By implementing effective infection control practices, such as proper hand hygiene, sterilization of medical equipment, and isolation protocols for infected patients, healthcare facilities aim to disrupt the transmission of pathogens. This proactive approach not only protects vulnerable patients but also safeguards healthcare workers, thereby improving overall patient care and outcomes.

Other options, while relevant to healthcare, do not encompass the primary objective of infection control strategies. For instance, eliminating all symptoms of illness is not feasible since many conditions may not have outright cures and symptoms can vary greatly. Shortening hospital stays, while important for efficiency and patient throughput, is a secondary benefit that can occur when infection rates are lowered, but it is not the fundamental aim of infection prevention. Providing vaccines to all patients is a vital public health endeavor but is just one component of a broader infection control strategy that includes a variety of measures aimed at minimizing risk.