Why should infection prevention and control (IPC) activities be included in the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement program?

The optimal choice is the focus on addressing a high-risk, potentially preventable cause of harm. Integrating infection prevention and control (IPC) activities into Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) programs is crucial because infections can have significant consequences for patient safety, healthcare outcomes, and overall system efficiency.

By prioritizing IPC within QAPI, organizations not only work to prevent adverse events related to infections but also demonstrate a commitment to high standards of care that enhance patient safety. The data collected from IPC efforts can lead to informed decision-making, targeted interventions, and ongoing improvements in practices that significantly reduce the incidence of infections. Addressing this high-risk area is essential because it directly affects patient morbidity and mortality rates, healthcare costs, and institutions' reputations.

The integration of IPC in a QAPI framework helps ensure a comprehensive approach to health care improvement, particularly in managing infection rates and improving overall patient outcomes, illustrating the importance of quality and safety in healthcare settings.