Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements about HAIs is true?

1. They are increasing due to poor sanitation

2. They can often be prevented through proper protocols

3. They are unrelated to construction activities

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: They can often be prevented through proper protocols

The statement about healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) that is accurate asserts that they can often be prevented through proper protocols. This emphasizes the importance of implementing evidence-based practices in healthcare settings, which include rigorous infection control measures. Techniques such as hand hygiene, proper sterilization of equipment, and adherence to isolation precautions have been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of HAIs. This recognition is critical for improving patient safety and outcomes in healthcare environments. The other options present misconceptions. For instance, while sanitation can impact infection rates, attributing the increase of HAIs solely to poor sanitation oversimplifies the issue. Furthermore, while construction activities can pose risks for HAIs, claiming they are unrelated fails to acknowledge the potential for dust, debris, and other factors during construction to compromise infection control measures. Thus, understanding the preventable nature of HAIs through proper protocols highlights the proactive steps that healthcare facilities can take to mitigate these infections.