Leicester to cut HAIs with software

Leicester’s hospitals have launched a new computer-based infection prevention system designed to help cut hospital acquired infections.

The system, ICNet and SSI Monitor, is part of an innovative software package that combines information about patient movements in the hospital with data held by the laboratory and theatre systems, so that staff are alerted when patients are either infected or at risk of an infection.

The infection detection and prevention system is designed to prevent infections spreading and help reduce the numbers of infections such as MRSA and Clostridium difficile.

ICNet is the result of a £150,000 award made by the Department of Health to Leicester’s hospitals in recognition of the trust’s success in preventing infections.

The new system will allow the trust to build on its good practice which has already seen it achieve on of the lowest rates of HAIs in the NHS.

Liz Collins, lead nurse for infection prevention, said: “This will be of huge benefit to assist us in improving patient care. It will lead to earlier treatment and more effective infection prevention management for our patients and will enable my team to work more efficiently.”

Katie Houghton, founder of ICNet International commented: “The effects of healthcare associated infections must not be underestimated in terms of the impact to the patient as well as the economy.”

In addition to infection prevention, the system will eventually be used to control antibiotic use, helping the trust lead the fight against antibiotic-resistant infections.