§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what research her Department has carried out in respect of a national prevalence survey of infection in hospitals; and if she will make a statement. [30473]
§ Mr. SackvilleA national prevalence survey of infection in hospitals was carried out in 1993–94. The detailed results are expected later this year.
The Department continues to fund a number of research and audit studies aimed at providing a basis for improving practice. Within the next three months we shall be placing a contract to set up a national surveillance system for hospital-acquired infection.