Minimizing hospital acquired intensive care unit infections: A focus on prevention

Table 4 Nursing quick-start checklist for intensive care unit infection prevention

Domain	Practical nursing actions
Hand hygiene	Perform hand hygiene at all WHO 5 Moments; ensure alcohol-based rub available at bedside
Personal protective equipment	Correct donning/doffing; use mask/respirator for aerosol-generating procedures
Invasive devices	Verify daily necessity of central lines, urinary catheters, and ventilators; request removal when no longer indicated
Ventilator care	Elevate head of bed 30°-45°; provide daily sedation interruption and readiness-to-wean assessment
Oral care and mobilization	Perform oral care with toothbrushing (no chlorhexidine); assist early mobilization/exercise at least once daily
Catheter care	Use aseptic technique during insertion; reassess and document catheter necessity daily
Environmental hygiene	Disinfect stethoscopes and mobile devices once per shift; ensure clean uniforms and bare forearms
Audit and feedback	Participate in hand hygiene/device audits; provide and accept immediate feedback
Family/patient engagement	Educate families on hand hygiene before and after patient contact; encourage participation in infection-prevention routines

WHO: World Health Organization.