Which statement about assessment in infection control is true?

The statement that assessment should occur regularly to identify trends is correct because ongoing assessment is a vital part of infection control. Regular assessments allow for the continuous monitoring of infection rates, compliance with protocols, and identification of emerging trends or potential issues before they escalate into outbreaks. By collecting data over time, healthcare facilities can analyze patterns related to infections and implement targeted interventions effectively.

This approach ensures a proactive rather than reactive stance towards infection prevention, which is essential in maintaining a safe environment for patients and staff. Regular assessments can also boost staff awareness and accountability regarding infection control practices, leading to better adherence to established protocols.

In contrast, assessment only during outbreaks is insufficient for effective infection control, as it fails to address potential risks beforehand. Focusing solely on cleaning practices neglects other critical areas such as surveillance, staff training, and patient management that contribute to comprehensive infection control. Lastly, performing assessments without staff input may overlook valuable insights from those directly involved in patient care and support, thereby hindering the effectiveness of the assessment process.