What is the main principle of infection control?

The main principle of infection control is centered around preventing the spread of pathogens, which is fundamentally achieved through proper hygiene practices. This includes various measures such as handwashing, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization of instruments, and maintaining cleanliness in healthcare environments. By emphasizing hygiene, infection control protocols aim to minimize the risk of infections both for patients and healthcare workers.

While wearing masks, administering vaccines, and limiting patient access can contribute to broader public health strategies, they are not the primary focus of infection control. Masks may help reduce transmission in specific settings, and vaccines are vital for preventative health but are not direct practices of infection control within a healthcare facility. Limiting patient access is not a standard infection control measure; rather, it could hinder necessary medical care. Thus, the emphasis on proper hygiene practices encapsulates the core goal of infection control, which is to safeguard health and prevent the outbreak of infectious diseases.