What is the most common transmission route for hospital-acquired infections (HAI)?

The most common transmission route for hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) is contact. This encompasses both direct and indirect contact. Direct contact involves the transfer of pathogens from person to person, such as through the hands of healthcare workers who may not have properly washed their hands or worn gloves. Indirect contact refers to pathogens being transmitted via surfaces or instruments that have been contaminated.

Given that many HAIs stem from organisms present on the skin or in bodily fluids, contact transmission is particularly prevalent in hospital settings where patients may have compromised immune systems or open wounds. Enhancing hand hygiene practices and environmental cleaning can significantly reduce the incidence of infections transmitted by contact.