What is a major element of the Joint Commission's standards on infection control?

A major element of the Joint Commission's standards on infection control is the implementation of evidence-based practices to prevent healthcare-associated infections. This focus underscores the importance of utilizing research and proven methodologies to formulate effective strategies that reduce infection rates within healthcare settings.

Evidence-based practices are developed through rigorous research and clinical studies that identify the most effective ways to prevent infections. These practices include proper hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), appropriate sterilization methods, and infection prevention protocols. By relying on this type of evidence, healthcare organizations can ensure that their approaches to infection control are grounded in scientifically validated methods, which ultimately enhances patient safety and care quality.

In contrast, increasing the number of healthcare staff does not directly correlate with infection control, as having more staff does not guarantee adherence to effective practices. A focus solely on patient education, while important, is not sufficient by itself for infection control, as the implementation of established protocols plays a critical role. Regular compliance audits for financial matters are unrelated to infection control standards and do not address the specific needs for preventing infections within a healthcare environment. Hence, the emphasis on evidence-based practices is vital for maintaining high standards in infection control as outlined by the Joint Commission.