The seven elements, which are reflected in CDC and OSHA standards and in the requirements and in many state laws and regulations, are spelled out in the following box and then explained in the sections that follow.

ELEMENT I

The responsibility to adhere to scientifically accepted principles and practices of infection control and to monitor the performance of those for whom the professional is responsible.

ELEMENT II

Modes and mechanisms of transmission of pathogenic organisms in the healthcare setting and strategies for prevention and control.

ELEMENT III

Use of engineering and work practice controls to reduce the opportunity for patient and healthcare worker exposure to potentially infectious material in all healthcare settings.

ELEMENT IV

Selection and use of barriers and/or personal protective equipment for preventing patient and healthcare worker contact with potentially infectious material.

ELEMENT V

Creation and maintenance of a safe environment for patient care in all healthcare settings through application of infection control principles and practices for cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization.

ELEMENT VI

Prevention and management of infectious of communicable diseases in healthcare workers.

ELEMENT VII (added in 2018)

Sepsis awareness and education.

Source: Author.