Infection control protocols are fundamental for safeguarding healthcare workers (HCWs) from the transmission of infectious diseases within healthcare settings. This scientific paper explores the evolution, current practices, and challenges surrounding infection control measures for HCWs. The importance of standard precautions, transmission-based precautions, personal protective equipment (PPE), and hand hygiene are highlighted, alongside the impact of education, training, and compliance on infection prevention. Despite the development of comprehensive protocols, barriers such as resource limitations, healthcare worker burnout, and inconsistent adherence persist, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The review also discusses the role of leadership in fostering a culture of safety and the potential of technological innovations in enhancing infection control practices. Addressing these barriers through improved leadership, mental health support, and global collaboration is essential to strengthening infection control strategies for HCWs. By ensuring that infection control protocols are sustainable, adaptable, and effectively implemented, healthcare systems can reduce the risks of healthcare-associated infections and protect the health of both workers and patients.

Keywords: Healthcare workers, infection control, personal protective equipment, hand hygiene, transmission-based precautions, infection prevention, healthcare-associated infections