Gap analysis of infection control practices in low- and middle-income countries.

Background: Healthcare-associated infection rates are higher in low- and middle-income countries compared with high-income countries, resulting in relatively larger incidence of patient mortality and disability and additional healthcare costs.

Objective: To use the Infection Control Assessment Tool to assess gaps in infection control (IC) practices in the participating countries.

Methods: Six international sites located in Argentina, Greece, Hungary, India, Nepal, and South Africa provided information on the health facility and the surgical modules relating to IC programs, surgical antibiotic use and surgical equipment procedures, surgical area practices, sterilization and disinfection of equipment and intravenous fluid, and hand hygiene.