Implementation of infection prevention and control strategies in Italian intensive care units: results from the SPIN-UTI network

The study shows substantial variability in IPC implementation across Italian ICUs and identifies key areas for improvement. While higher IPCAF scores correlate with better adherence to preventive practices, they do not directly predict HAI rates, possibly due to differences in surveillance sensitivity, lack of correlation with actual incidence, or the subjective nature of IPCAF responses. Strengthening education, staffing, monitoring and feedback systems is essential to enhance IPC effectiveness and patient safety.