Hospital and Environmental Hygiene: A Critical Component of Patient Safety

Abstract Hospital and environmental hygiene are foundational elements in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), the protection of healthcare workers, and the delivery of safe and effective healthcare services. This essay explores the definitions, importance, components, challenges, and potential solutions associated with hospital and environmental hygiene. Supported by current literature, the essay emphasizes the need for comprehensive hygiene protocols, staff training, and infrastructure development to maintain clean, safe healthcare environments. Introduction Healthcare settings are high-risk environments where the spread of infections can have severe consequences. Hospital and environmental hygiene, defined as the measures used to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection within healthcare facilities, is a key aspect of healthcare quality and patient safety (Allegranzi et al., 2011). With the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance and the global burden ...