IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-8-7-19909 Original Research Paper HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATED INFECTION CONTROL MEASURES IN NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNITS OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Mohit Karol Dr. July 2019 8 7 01 02 ABSTRACT

Background: Health care–associated infection (HCAI), also referred to as "nosocomial" or "hospital" infection, is an infection occurring in a patient during the process of care in a hospital or other health care facility which was not present or incubating at the time of admission. Material & Methods: A cross sectional study was carried over a period of two months in NICU settings of IGMC, Shimla. 15 staff nurses and 20 residents (Junior residents & Senior residents). Thus, sample size of 35 was covered. Results: On assessment of hospital specific parameters, HICC, HICP, and HICG were found to be at par with WHO standards. Management of BMW was also found to be appropriate. The problem areas were CSSD and laundry services as they were not of adequate size and staff was also inadequate. In ICU separate cabin for high risk infection patient was not there. Proper hand washing setup was not there and visitors were not encouraged to wash hands or wear caps. All of the staff were adequately qualified for the work in ICU although no. of staff was below standard for an ICU. Conclusion: well defined hospital control committee was present. Problem areas identified were infrastructure, CSSD & laundry services.