FAQ

GEORGIAN ASSOCIATION FOR PROFESSIONALS IN INFECTION CONTROL AND EPIDEMIOLOGY

Clinical epidemiology is an important discipline in medicine. It uses epidemiological methods to predict the health status of individual patients and make the best medical decisions. Clinical epidemiology is closely related to evidence-based medicine, which relies on research and statistically sound data to provide the best possible outcomes for patients.

Epidemiology is the science that studies the patterns of disease occurrence and spread in society and develops preventive measures. Epidemiology, as a science, originated in the 4th century BC in Greece. Hippocrates is considered its founder. Epidemiologists study the origin of diseases, their risk factors, and the ways in which they spread, which helps in developing strategies for disease prevention and control. The main goals of epidemiology are: Studying the spread of diseases: This involves assessing the frequency and geographical distribution of various diseases. Identifying risk factors: Epidemiologists study which factors increase or decrease the risk of diseases. Developing control and prevention methods: Based on data analysis, epidemiologists create strategies aimed at stopping the spread of diseases or preventing them. Epidemiology plays an important role in protecting public health and developing evidence-based medical practice.

Epidemiological analysis is the process by which epidemiologists analyze data to determine trends, risk factors, and possible causes of disease. This analysis is used to better understand health conditions, develop preventive measures, and make appropriate public health decisions. Epidemiological analysis involves: Data collection: The initial collection of data, which may include recording information on the number of cases, incidence, risk factors, and other related data. Data classification: The collected data is organized and structured according to age, sex, geographic location, and other demographic or social factors. Statistical analysis: This stage involves statistical analysis of the data to show correlations, trends, and frequencies among different patient groups and risk factors. Investigation and interpretation: The interpretation of statistical results to determine the causes, risk factors, and other important characteristics of the disease. Formulating opinions: Epidemiologists formulate hypotheses or conclusions based on the results of the analysis. This includes determining the causes of the spread of the disease and developing recommendations for preventive measures. Applying the results: The ultimate goal is to apply the results of the analysis in practice, such as shaping public health policies, developing disease prevention strategies, and updating medical recommendations. Epidemiological analysis plays an important role in the process of disease control and prevention, allowing public health agencies and professionals to respond to health threats in a timely and accurate manner.

Operational analysis in epidemiology is a rapid and practical data analysis process used in health emergencies or when rapid response is needed. Its goal is to process and interpret epidemiological data in a timely manner in order to make rapid and effective decisions to control and prevent the spread of diseases. The main characteristics of operational analysis are: Speed: Operational analysis is performed quickly, often in real time, to ensure an immediate response in the event of a disease outbreak. Practical application: The analysis is focused on using data that is immediately available and allows for a rapid assessment of the spread of the disease, risk factors and the necessary response measures. Focus on current events: Operational analysis is particularly important when a rapid response is needed during a serious risk to public health, such as an epidemic or pandemic. Application in health services: Its results are used to mobilize health services, implement preventive measures and optimize resource allocation. Communication and Coordination: Information obtained through operational analysis is quickly disseminated to relevant agencies and organizations to ensure coordination and joint response are as effective as possible.

A doctor of any specialty with a certificate in medical specialties can become an IPC specialist after completing a retraining course, as well as a nurse with relevant experience after completing a training course. It is also allowed for a dentist to perform the duties of an IPC specialist after completing a retraining course in dental practice.

Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) is a set of practices and strategies implemented in healthcare settings to prevent and control the spread of infections acquired during healthcare services. HAI infections can occur when patients, staff or other individuals are exposed to microorganisms that can be transmitted through medical instruments, devices, body fluids or even the air. The main components of IPC include: Hand hygiene: One of the most effective methods of preventing infections. Regular and proper hand hygiene helps reduce the spread of microorganisms. Personal protective equipment: It is mandatory for staff to use appropriate equipment, such as gloves, masks, gowns, to reduce the risk of infections. Sterilization and disinfection: Proper sterilization and disinfection of medical instruments and devices is essential to prevent the spread of infections. Isolation and quarantine: In the case of infectious diseases, it is necessary to isolate or quarantine infected patients to prevent the spread of the disease to other patients and staff. Waste management: Proper management and disposal of biological and other medical waste to prevent the spread of infection. Vaccination: Vaccination of medical personnel (e.g., hepatitis B, influenza) to prevent infections. Education and training: Ongoing education and training of staff in compliance with IPC standards and procedures.

Under current regulations, online training for credit points is not allowed.