Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), illnesses that were not present at the time of admission, are a major challenge, affecting hundreds of millions of people around the word every year, and up to 7% of patients in developed countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the impact includes prolonged hospital stays, long-term disability, increased resistance of microorganisms to antimicrobials, massive additional costs for health systems, high costs for patients and their family and unnecessary deaths. The WHO has identified eight components to support tackling HAIs. Component eight covers the built environment, materials and equipment for infection prevention and control in acute healthcare facilities. Its recommendations include that patient care activities take place in a hygienic/clean environment that supports the prevention and control of HAIs.
https://www.who.int/infection-prevention/publications/burden_hcai/en/