Which of the following measures aims to prevent and control infections?

The measure that specifically aims to prevent and control infections is infection control. This encompasses a range of practices and protocols designed to minimize the risk of infection within healthcare settings. Infection control includes procedures such as hand hygiene, sterilization of instruments, isolation protocols when needed, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among healthcare workers. It addresses both the prevention of infection transmission among patients and staff and the management of outbreaks when they occur.

Discharge planning primarily focuses on preparing patients for a smooth transition from the healthcare facility to their homes or other care settings, ensuring continuity of care but not directly related to infection prevention. Surgical services, while they may involve strict infection control measures, are broader in scope, dealing with surgical procedures and patient care associated with surgeries. Utilization review is a process that evaluates the efficiency and appropriateness of healthcare services and does not focus directly on infection prevention.

Overall, infection control is a critical component of maintaining patient safety and quality of care within any healthcare environment, emphasizing its importance in infection prevention.