Bayonne University Hospital achieves rare 24-month infection-free streak
The milestone comes as Bayonne University Hospital undergoes a major operational transformation
In a significant win for patient safety, Hudson Regional Health announced Friday that Bayonne University Hospital has recorded zero hospital-acquired infections for two consecutive years.
The achievement—covering all of 2024 and 2025—places BUH among the only acute care hospitals in New Jersey to reach the "gold standard" of infection prevention across an entire facility for back-to-back years.
Hospital-acquired infections remain a critical challenge in the U.S. healthcare system. According to national data, this typically occur in approximately 1 out of every 31 hospitalized patients, often leading to longer stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality rates.
"Reaching zero healthcare-acquired infections for two consecutive years is no small feat," said Hudson Regional CEO and President Dr. Nizar Kifaieh. "It speaks to the dedication of our entire team and the expert care they provide each and every day."
The milestone comes as Bayonne University Hospital undergoes a major operational transformation. Since Hudson Regional Health assumed leadership following the previous operator’s bankruptcy 15 months ago, the hospital has seen a surge in reduce ER wait times, insfractructure upgrades, expanded staff and higher patient volume
Cynthia Mercado-Reyes, Director of Infection Control at BUH, attributed the success to a "laser focus" on evidence-based protocols and constant staff vigilance. By maintaining a sterile environment, the hospital aims to assure the local community that the facility is a safe harbor for acute care.
"The Bayonne community can rest assured that when they step foot in our hospital, they will receive the highest quality care," added Dr. Vijayant Singh, BUH Chief Hospital Executive.
The hospital plans to build on this momentum as it continues its institutional reforms and facility-wide upgrades throughout 2026.
