A cross-Canada survey of infection prevention and control in long-term care facilities.

Background: Residents in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are at considerable risk for developing infections. This is the first comprehensive examination of infection control programs in Canadian LTCFs in almost 20 years.

Methods: A survey designed to assess resident and LTCF characteristics; personnel, laboratory, computer, and reference resources; and surveillance and control activities of infection prevention and control programs was sent in 2005 to all eligible LTCFs across Canada.