Quality of Nosocomial Infection Control in Thailand
Somwang Danchaivijitr MD*, Anuwat Supchutikul MD**, Sribenja Watayapiches RN***, Kanchana Kachintorn RN***
Affiliation : *Department of Medicine,Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, **Institute of Quality Development, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, ***Center for Nosocomial Infection Control, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital
Objective : To study the quality of nosocomial infection control with respect to structure and process.
Materials and Methods : Data collection by questionnaire and interview administrators and medical personnel
in 57 hospitals in Thailand in 2002.
Results : Nosocomial infection control was implemented in all 57 hospitals. In every hospital, there was an
infection control committee (ICC) and at least 1 infection control nurse (ICN). The quality of ICNs regarding
knowledge, skill and time available for infection control needed to be improved. Surveillance methods of NI
were not appropriate in many hospitals. Doctors were not interested in NI control and supply of certain
materials was not adequate. Lack of support and co-operation of doctors and nurses was found. Service of
certain departments needed to be revised in over 50%. Doctors and nurses not directly involved in NI con-
trolled were not satisfied with current practices.
Conclusion : Quality of NI control in Thailand has yet to be improved regarding structure and process. Better
cooperation between NI control team and healthcare personnel needs to be developed.
Keywords : Quality, Nosocomial infection control, Thailand
