Structure of infection control and prevention in Cho Ray hospital: an analysis of the current situation

Abstract

We analysed healthcare-associated infection in Vietnam using Cho Ray hospital as a case study. We searched the internet, the library of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, and that of the Department of Infection Control (DIC) for relevant documents. We conducted 17 in-depth interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Most Vietnamese hospitals have an Infection Control Committee (ICC) and a DIC which were commonly developed from the laundry unit, the centre of sterile supply, or sanitary unit. However, the DIC of Cho Ray was planned to allow the ICC, DIC, and Infection Control Network (ICN) to cooperate. Cho Ray provided staff with limited facilities against HAI. Two important strategies against HAI (hand washing and training) have now been launched. Overcrowding, lack of general resources, and unclear regulations on the control, prevention and surveillance of HAI were the main difficulties encountered, however management support was helpful. Most available literature provided information on prevalence and incidence of HAI, but little on outcomes or costs. The hospital has established a surveillance system to monitor HAI rates. However patients are not followed up after discharge.