Integrated care pathways (ICPs) and infection control

Abstract

Purpose

The article aims to globally illuminate and inform the healthcare delivery systems of the potential value of integrated care pathways (ICPs) application to the management and control of infection in the hospital setting

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of recent pertinent literature (1993‐2004) is given, preceded by a broad overview of both the subjects of infection control and ICPs.

Findings

There are scanty examples of ICPs applied to infection control albeit successfully with demonstrable merits which include improvements in the quality and cost of care. However, there is a lack of robust studies on the subject which warrants further research.

Originality/value

Infection control is a major challenge to all healthcare providers seeking practical solutions. This source article may stimulate further informed debate to curb the problem of hospital acquired infection (HAI) which remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality despite all the great advancement in medicine.

Citation

Nyatanga, T. and Holliman, R. (2005), "Integrated care pathways (ICPs) and infection control", Clinical Governance: An International Journal, Vol. 10 No. 2, pp. 106-117. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777270510594281