Controlling healthcare associated infections (HAI) and the role of facilities management in achieving “quality” in healthcare: A three-dimensional view

Abstract

Purpose — To explore the role of facilities management (FM) in the control of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAI) and then to discuss a three-dimensional approach which can be used for FM services in the control of infections (HAI). Design/methodology/approach — Most of what is put forward in this paper is based on a research project which is at its early stages. The discussions are therefore grounded on a thorough review of literature accomplished as part of the research project. Unstructured interviews with experts (sample — 25) in infection control in National Health Service in Scotland (NHSS), carried out concurrently as a pilot study, also provided useful insights when writing up this paper. Findings — It is suggested that integrating FM effectively with the core services is vital in avoiding duplication of work carried out by the healthcare workers. Continuous measurement and management of performance of FM services is also vital in the control of HAI. In addition, it was identified that managing knowledge is important to retain, develop, organize, and utilize the organization's capability of managing HAI. Overall, an increased concerted effort; better integration of processes and practices between clinical and non-clinical activities in the healthcare sector and effective dissemination of knowledge are all vital in controlling HAI to achieve “quality” in healthcare provisions. More empirical research is needed to explore the many complex and significant ways in which FM can be exploited for improved control of HAI. Research limitations/implications — Both targeted guidelines on the role of FM in the control of HAI as well as the paucity of relevant literature on related areas are limitations. Practical implications — The culture of healthcare managers and functional level staff is a major implication when operationalizing the three-dimensional approach introduced in the paper. Originality/value — The paper focuses on one of the major issues in healthcare, i.e. HAI. Few have taken an FM perspective on this issue. This paper therefore adds significantly to our understanding of the control of HAI from a non-clinical perspective. © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited