Measurement of infection control department performance: State of the science

The SENIC study remains the most thorough assessment of the relationship between infection control department activities and patient outcomes. However, the scope of infection control practice has broadened, and the health care delivery system has changed dramatically since that study was performed. Few new studies have assessed infection control department performance and its relationship to patient outcomes, compliance with accepted standards of patient care, or cost of care. A current assessment of infection control department resources, functions and scope of responsibility linked to patient outcomes and cost is needed to give health care institutions a relevant benchmark for infection control resource needs and the return to be expected from that investment.