Mitigation of Hospital Acquired Infections in Developing Countries through the Provision of a Better IAQ

Abstract

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) determines the functionality and economics of a building. Thus, healthcare facilities are under pressure to maintain good IAQ as many people are at risk because of the infectious diseases that can spread through air quite easily. When infections caught by hospitalized patients are not controlled, Hospital Acquired Infections (HAIs) could develop. HAIs relate to those infections that are not present at the time of admission of a patient but which develop during the course of his/her stay at hospital. HAIs directly affect patients, their caretakers and employees. Hence, the healthcare sector is highly concerned about IAQ since airborne microorganisms present in indoor air can cause HAIs. In this study, a qualitative approach was used with semi- structured interviews and a documentary review to collect data from three identified cases. Resulting findings were validated by four experts. Initially, the importance of IAQ in the healthcare sector was identified through semi-structured interviews. Sources affecting IAQ such as human activities, equipment etc., were recognized from the literature survey and validated through semi-structured interviews. Consequently, the impact and causes of HAIs like inadequate ventilation, poor hand hygiene, poor housekeeping etc., were investigated and a framework to assist in mitigating HAIs by improving.