Integrating infection control and environmental management work systems to prevent Clostridioides difficile infection

Effective infection prevention and control within health care settings requires collaboration and coordination between infection control and environmental management teams. However, the work systems of these teams can be difficult to integrate despite their shared goals. We provide results from a qualitative study of Clostridioides difficile infection prevention in Veterans Affairs facilities regarding challenges in coordination between these teams and opportunities to improve coordination and maximize infection prevention activities. •Environmental services and infection control are critical for infection prevention.•These teams’ work systems are generally not integrated despite shared goals.•Integrating these work systems can enhance infection prevention and empower staff.•Standardizing processes and materials can improve opportunities for collaboration.