Healthcare associated infections
February 2006
Strategies for improvement: role of the healthcare professional
Research and development
The prevention and control of HCAIs requires the continual development of proactive measures and intervention strategies aimed at reducing the spread of infection, inhibiting the development of antimicrobial resistance and combating existing infections. This in turn necessitates scientific and clinical research to increase our understanding of all aspects of HCAIs. Relatively little evidence-based research has been conducted into the best methods to reduce and combat HCAIs. [Go to note 46] The DH has invested £3 million for new research programmes into HCAIs, [Go to note 48] but it has been argued that this level of funding is inadequate. [Go to note 46] The new research programmes include a national research strategy to address gaps in current scientific and clinical knowledge, a rapid review process to fast-track promising innovative procedures, and the establishment of a research network for HCAIs. [Go to note 1] Despite our increased understanding of the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, the likelihood of the development of new antibiotics is limited. Development requires significant investment from the pharmaceutical industry, yet any new antibiotic is likely to be used sparingly to prevent the emergence of resistant micro-organisms. Pharmaceutical companies would therefore face difficulties in recovering developmental and production costs.
Further information
- Action areas and guidelines research and development for HCAIs can be found in Winning ways: working together to reduce healthcare associated infection in England (Department of Health, 2003).