Advocacy

Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Infection Control Nurses Chapter (ICNC) as it strives to be the leading voice in the promotion of infection control practices across all healthcare settings. In the face of global health challenges, the need for robust infection prevention and control (IPC) measures cannot be overstated.

ICNC’s advocacy efforts are driven by the understanding that effective infection control policies not only protect patients but also safeguard healthcare workers and the broader community. The chapter actively engages with policymakers, healthcare institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure that IPC protocols are integrated into national health strategies. This involvement is critical in shaping a healthcare system that prioritizes safety and minimizes the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). By participating in policy-making processes, ICNC provides expert opinions and advocates for legislation that supports comprehensive IPC measures.

These efforts are complemented by public awareness campaigns aimed at educating the general public on the importance of infection control. Through these campaigns, ICNC seeks to change behaviors and attitudes towards hygiene, ultimately reducing the spread of infections. The chapter’s commitment to advocacy underscores its role as a leader in the fight against infections in healthcare and community settings.

Our Initiatives Include;

Policy Influence

We actively participate in policy-making processes, offering expert opinions and advocating for the inclusion of IPC measures in national health policies. By engaging with government bodies, we strive to create a healthcare system where IPC is prioritized, reducing hospital-acquired infections by up to 70%, as evidenced by global case studies.

Stakeholder Engagement

ICNC collaborates with various stakeholders, including healthcare institutions, government bodies, NGOs, and international health agencies, to promote a unified approach to infection control. Through partnerships, we aim to align national IPC strategies with international standards, enhancing the effectiveness of infection control measures.

Public Awareness Campaigns

We conduct extensive public awareness campaigns to educate the general public about the importance of infection control. These campaigns are designed to change behaviors and attitudes towards hygiene and infection prevention, contributing to a safer community. Recent studies show that public education on hand hygiene alone can reduce the spread of infections by 30%.

In Kenya, infection control has been a critical focus of healthcare research, particularly in addressing hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).

Studies in Kenyan healthcare facilities have shown that rigorous infection control measures, including hand hygiene, sterilization, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), significantly reduce the incidence of HAIs.

A notable study conducted in Kenyan hospitals revealed that with the implementation of robust infection control protocols, the prevalence of surgical site infections was reduced by over 40%. Moreover, ongoing research continues to explore the effectiveness of various IPC interventions, including the impact of continuous professional training on infection prevention outcomes.

These efforts are vital in shaping policies that prioritize patient safety and health system resilience.

Did you Know?

“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”   by Malcolm X