What does the term "infection prevention measures" include in healthcare construction?

The term "infection prevention measures" in healthcare construction specifically refers to strategies that are employed to minimize the risk of infection within healthcare environments. These strategies include practices such as maintaining negative air pressure in certain areas, which helps to prevent airborne pathogens from moving to other parts of a facility, and implementing dust containment measures during construction activities. Such mitigation practices are crucial in a healthcare setting where immunocompromised patients may be present, as they directly impact patient safety and health outcomes.

Infection prevention measures are designed to create safe environments and are grounded in evidence-based practices that focus on controlling the spread of pathogens. The use of negative air pressure and dust containment effectively reduces the likelihood of contaminants affecting patient care areas, thus promoting a safer environment for healing and recovery.

Other options listed, such as decorative finishes and landscaping, building management systems, or exterior design modifications, while they may enhance the aesthetic or functional aspects of a facility, do not directly relate to infection prevention or control measures in the context of healthcare construction. These elements, although important for overall building design and functioning, do not contribute to the primary objective of reducing infection risks.