Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

Healthcare-acquired infections are responsible for more than how many deaths annually?

1. 30,000 deaths

2. 60,000 deaths

3. 90,000 deaths

4. 120,000 deaths

The correct answer is: 90,000 deaths

Healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) are a significant concern in healthcare settings, as they can lead to severe health complications and increased mortality rates. Research and data from health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), indicate that HAIs are estimated to cause around 90,000 deaths annually in the United States alone. This statistic highlights the critical impact of HAIs on patient safety and public health. The figure of 90,000 provides a basis for understanding the severity of the issue and the importance of infection control measures in healthcare environments. It underscores the ongoing need for sterilization, proper hand hygiene, and stringent protocols in sterile processing to minimize the risk of infections that can lead to such high mortality rates. This information is vital for healthcare professionals, as it emphasizes the role they play in preventing HAIs, thus promoting patient safety and improving overall health outcomes in clinical settings. Understanding this statistic helps healthcare workers recognize the importance of their responsibilities in the management of sterile processing and distribution.