%0 Journal Article
%T The influence of physical environment on health care-associated infections: A literature review.
%A Nadi ZB
%A Raisali F
%A Jafari N
%A Bayramzadeh S
%J Am J Infect Control
%V 52
%N 2
%D 2024 02 23
%M 37356457
%F 4.303
%R 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.06.010
%X Health care-associated infections (HAIs) are a common issue in health care settings, caused by environmental microorganisms, leading to health risks and financial strain. Despite efforts to reduce HAIs, the role of the physical environment in reducing HAIs is not fully understood. This literature review aimed to identify physical environment variables contributing to HAIs.<BR>A literature search was conducted in scientific databases between 2016 and 2022 using keywords associated with infections and physical environment variables. After screening retrieved articles for eligibility, the articles were analyzed for relevant environmental and infection variables.<BR>Out of 145, 27 articles were identified. The findings were grouped into 8 categories, including layout design, surfaces, behavior, lighting, Internet of Things, materials, airflow, and air quality, with sub-themes in each group.<BR>The physical environment in health care facilities plays a crucial role in reducing and preventing the spread of HAIs. Proper design and construction of health care buildings, including ventilation and air conditioning systems, help prevent infection spread between functional areas. Antimicrobial materials, cleaning and disinfection protocols, and personal hygiene practices, such as hand hygiene, are key factors in infection control. The positioning of hand hygiene stations is also essential to improve compliance among health care professionals.