AI Joins the Infection Prevention Team
Artificial intelligence is no longer just a support tool, it is becoming an active member of the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) workforce.
That was the central message of a recent APIC microlesson, “The Newest Infection Prevention Team Member: Artificial Intelligence,” presented by Krystal Robinson and Martin Caudillo for the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).
The session highlighted how AI is moving from theory to practice, particularly in education, coaching, and human-interaction–focused IPC use cases.
AI in IPC: From Support to Contribution
Historically, IPC programs have relied heavily on human observation, manual audits, and instructor-led training. While effective, these approaches are resource-intensive and difficult to scale—especially amid workforce shortages and increasing regulatory demands.
The APIC microlesson emphasized that AI can now function as a consistent, scalable training partner, supporting infection preventionists rather than replacing them. Education and skills validation—especially for PPE donning and doffing and hand hygiene—emerged as the most immediate and high-impact applications.
Evidence From Practice: The Blue Mirror Trial
A major focus of the microlesson was a 6-month real-world trial of the Blue Mirror AI PPE and Hand Hygiene Trainer, directly comparing AI-supported training with traditional human-led methods.
Key findings included:
⏱️ 15 minutes per staff member with a human preceptor
⚡ 3 minutes per staff member using Blue Mirror
🚫 No requirement for in-person trainers
📊 Automated tracking and reporting for compliance and auditing
🌍 Self-paced, multilingual training, improving comprehension and equity
These findings align with the broader literature showing that efficient, feedback-driven educational interventions improve compliance more effectively than passive instruction alone.
Why it matters
Training quality and consistency directly affect HAI risk.
Healthcare-associated infections remain costly, harmful, and largely preventable. AI-enabled training addresses persistent barriers. Time constraints, staffing shortages, and inconsistent feedback, while supporting equitable access to high-quality IPC education across diverse healthcare settings.
Evidence consistently shows that educational interventions reduce infection risk, but sustainability depends on scalability and measurement (WHO, 2022). AI-supported training provides both.
AI Strengthens, Not Replaces, IPC Expertise
The APIC microlesson reinforced a critical point: AI works best when guided by infection prevention professionals. Infection preventionists define protocols, interpret data, and lead culture change. AI simply enhances their reach and consistency.
Practical Next Step
Healthcare organizations looking to modernize IPC training can explore AI-driven, skills-based education for PPE and hand hygiene, such as the Blue Mirror AI Trainer.
Learn more about practical AI PPE and hand hygiene training at https://www.bluemirror.ai
References
Robinson K, Caudillo M. The Newest Infection Prevention Team Member: Artificial Intelligence. APIC Microlesson. 2024. Available at: https://education.apic.org/products/microlesson-the-newest-infection-prevention-team-member-artificial-intelligence
Pittet D, Allegranzi B, Storr J. WHO Clean Care is Safer Care programme. J Infect Prev. 2008;9(6_suppl):4–10.
Educational interventions for prevention of healthcare-associated infections. Crit Care Med. 2008;36(3). https://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/abstract/2008/03000/educational_interventions_for_prevention_of.39.aspx
Grol R, Grimshaw J. From best evidence to best practice. Lancet. 2003;362(9391):1225–1230. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(03)14546-1
World Health Organization. Global Review on Infection Prevention and Control. Geneva; 2022.
