"Healthcare-associated infections can make illnesses worse, further debilitate patients who are already struggling and sometimes lead to death," Secretary Sebelius further stated in the press release. "Through the funding provided by the Recovery Act, we can help prevent these infections and improve the quality of care for all patients."

The Secretary called on hospitals nationwide to commit on reducing Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infections in Intensive Care Units by 75 percent over the next three years. Secretary Sebelius also challenged hospitals to utilize a proven patient-safety checklist which the HHS says can "significantly and dramatically" reduce the rate of infections. The checklist can be accessed at http://www.ahrq.gov/qual/clichklist.htm.


"Patients expect to get better in a healthcare facility, not worse," Secretary Sebelius concluded. "The Recovery Act money will help protect patient safety, but we need hospitals to do more. Today, I'm challenging hospitals to take basic steps to fight infections that are weakening our health care system and threatening patient safety."

The reports issued can be accessed at: http://www.ahrq.gov/qual/qrdr08.htm

Adapted from a press release by the Department of Health and Human Services.


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