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The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), in conjunction with NORC at the University of Chicago and the Johns Hopkins University, created the AHRQ Safety Program for Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI) Prevention to implement a bundle of recently updated evidence-based infection prevention toolkits designed to measurably decrease HAIs in intensive care units (ICUs) and non-ICUs across the United States. The AHRQ Safety Program for HAI Prevention builds on AHRQ’s pioneering work using Comprehensive Unit-based Safety Program (CUSP) methods to reduce three common HAIs: central line-associated bloodstream infections, catheter-associated urinary tract infections, and ventilator-associated pneumonia and ventilator-associated events. This program aims to refine the current AHRQ toolkits for preventing these HAIs to ensure they meet the needs of our current healthcare environment.
HAIs are a major cause of illness in the United States, affecting about 3 percent of all hospitalized patients and resulting in as many as 700,000 infections per year.[1] HAI prevention efforts are challenged by (1) the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) the need for updated evidence and toolkits, and (3) antimicrobial resistance. The program aims to enhance the utility of existing HAI prevention toolkits by updating them with the latest evidence and refining them using lessons learned from their real-world implementation.
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HAIs: Reports and Data. Updated November 25, 2024. Accessed October 2024. HAIs: Reports and Data | HAIs | CDC.
Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSI)
Apply to the Program
Enrollment is currently open.
For more information about the program, please visit the Program FAQs or Join the Program.
Please select the corresponding link below to register and attend an upcoming informational webinar to learn more about the program.
CLABSI Informational Webinar Materials