Formative and process evaluation of a healthcare-associated infection surveillance program in residential aged care facilities, Grampians region, Victoria

Abstract

Background: In 2010, a standardised healthcare associated infection surveillance program was implemented and evaluated in 30 residential aged care facilities (RACF) located in the Grampians rural region, Victoria. Methods: High level care residents were monitored for trachea-bronchitis, cellulitis, conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis and symptomatic urinary tract infections. Infection data was collected and reported by RACF staff or infection control (IC) consultants. 'Infections' reported by RACF staff were confirmed or excluded by an IC consultant after reviewing medical records. Results: Of the 297 true infections, 89.9% were reported by RACF staff. IC consultants excluded 206 'infections' re..