The Role of Modern Technologies in Infection Control in Health Buildings

Abstract

This research will assess the effectiveness of modern technologies in preventing infections in health-care buildings in Libya with regard to the degree to which these structures conform to international best practice. The study employed an evaluation of checklists and questionnaires targeting healthcare facility managers, engineers, and infection control supervisors to gather field data Descriptive analytical techniques were used to analyze the data obtained. Statistical techniques were employed to extract design and technological deficiencies that prevent the development of a secure climate within the healthcare setting.

The findings showed that there were severe shortcomings in the application of design standards, including the selection of healthcare building sites that are not near pollution sources and designing internal circulation routes so that the interaction between patients and staff is minimal. Furthermore, it was revealed that there was a very low level of utilization of advanced technologies like smart ventilation, sanitization technologies, and antimicrobial finishing technologies. These shortcomings affect healthcare buildings’ capacity to lower infection rates as well as protect patients and health care staff.

Accordingly, the following practical recommendations were given by the study: The design of healthcare buildings should be improved to conform to international standards, the technology of ventilation and sanitization in healthcare facilities should be advanced, and there is need for training programs to educate workers and designers on infection control. The study also suggested the improvement of the institutions and regulations that would foster the use of the said standards and technologies.

This work focuses on the significance of combining architectural design with technologies in the course of enhancing the quality of the healthcare setting. But it also recommended that more research be done to provide strategies that are more specific about local issues and conditions. It is hoped that these findings and recommendations will benefit decision makers and engineers in designing safer and more efficient health care facilities.