One area of the National Patient Safety Goals program that will likely undergo significant change is infection control protocols, driven by advancements in technology and data science. The future will see a shift from manual, human-centric protocols to automated, AI-driven systems.

Prediction: The Rise of AI-Powered Infection Control

I predict that a key change to the NPSG for infection control will be a move toward real-time, predictive analytics and automated intervention. Instead of relying primarily on manual audits and intermittent hand hygiene checks, hospitals will implement smart systems that continuously monitor the environment and staff behavior.

• Predictive Surveillance: Current protocols for infection control often involve a reactive approach, where an infection is identified after a patient has developed symptoms. In the future, hospitals will utilize AI and machine learning algorithms to analyze patient data in real-time—including vital signs, lab results, and medication orders. These systems will identify subtle patterns and a patient’s risk for a hospital-acquired infection (HAI) much earlier, enabling clinicians to intervene before an infection takes hold.
• Automated Environmental Control: The next generation of infection control will extend beyond people to the physical environment. Smart sensors will be integrated into hospital rooms and high-traffic areas to monitor factors like air quality, humidity, and surface cleanliness. UV-C light robots or automated cleaning systems, triggered by sensor data, will autonomously disinfect rooms after patient discharge or in between procedures. This reduces human error and ensures a consistent standard of cleanliness.
• Behavioral Monitoring: New technology will improve compliance with infection control protocols. Staff will wear smart badges or other devices that use location data and sensors to automatically monitor hand hygiene adherence and compliance with isolation protocols. Instead of an infection preventionist conducting an audit, the system will provide real-time feedback and reminders, creating a continuous loop of improvement and accountability.

This shift is driven by the need for more efficient and proactive methods to combat healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which are a significant cause of morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. The technological ability to analyze vast amounts of data and automate tasks offers a powerful new way to address this long-standing patient safety challenge.