Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) are a condition resulting from the presence of an infectious agent. To be considered an HAI, there must be no evidence that the infection was present at the time of admission to the hospital.

HAIs are among the leading causes of death in the United States. The CDC estimates that as many as 2 million infections are acquired each year in hospitals and result in approximately 90,000 deaths per year. It is estimated that more Americans die each year from HAIs than from auto accidents and homicides combined. HAIs not only put the patient at risk, but also increase the days of hospitalization required for patients and add considerable healthcare costs.

HAIs are largely preventable with interventions, including better hygiene and scientifically tested techniques for surgical patients.  CIMRO of Nebraska is partnering with eligible hospitals, the Nebraska Hospital Association and others to report and reduce HAI infections, focusing on:

• Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI)
• Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI)
• Clostridium difficile (CDI)
• Surgical Site Infections (SSI)