The fifth edition of this classic text is the definitive, clinically oriented guide to this critical area within healthcare practice, full of sound, practical advice for all those involved in the control of infection in a variety of settings. Thoroughly revised and updated throughout, it has been retitled for this new edition to emphasize the range of coverage, from the hopsital setting--including the ward, operating theaters, kitchens, and laundry facilities-- to health care provision in the community.

The content has also been restructured, improving access to related topics for the reader. Part One discusses the basic principles of infection control, including administrative issues, surveillance and reporting, sterilization, disinfection, and decontamination, with an emphasis on the key area of hand hygiene. Part Two covers the specific areas of prophylazis and treatment of infections, for example, the use of antimicrobial agents and issues pertaining to specific infections including MRSA. In Part Three prevention in different healthcare settings is presented, including issues particular to special wards and departments, such as paediatric and neonatal units, intensive care, the elderly, and those being treated or working within allied health areas, such as x-ray, physiotherapy, and the laboratory setting.

Control of Healthcare-Associated Infection will remain essential reading for infection control practitioners, nurses, doctors, surgeons, allied health professionals, hospital managers and administrators, and public health personnel.