Nursing Strategies for Infection Control in Epidemic Settings

Abstract

The evolution of infection control in healthcare spans centuries, rooted in foundational principles established during the 19th century and continually refined through scientific advancements. This review explores the multifaceted role of nurses in infection prevention, highlighting their leadership in implementing evidence-based practices, adapting to global health emergencies, and addressing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Nurses play a critical role in infection control during pandemics, serving as the first line of defense in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. During global health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses demonstrated exceptional adaptability by managing patient surges, ensuring compliance with hand hygiene and personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols, and innovating infection control strategies in resource-limited settings. Nurses also played a key role in outbreak surveillance, contact tracing, and the implementation of isolation measures to curb transmission. Their proactive involvement in education—training healthcare staff and communicating effectively with patients and communities—was instrumental in promoting adherence to infection control practices. This review underscores the importance of nurses as leaders and educators in infection control during pandemics. Their ability to adapt protocols, advocate for infection prevention measures, and deliver patient-centered care amid crisis conditions positions them as indispensable in safeguarding public health and managing future outbreaks effectively.