Much thought has been given to the role of the nurse in the future. Concern has been expressed that nurses are becoming preoccupied with technology which, despite the undoubted advantages, is diverting attention from simple prevention and control of infection measures. In countries with minimal resources the appointment of a full-time infection control nurse may not be feasible. Therefore, attempts should be made to train all nurses in the basic principles and practice of the prevention and control of nosocomial infection. This training should be designed to suit the needs of the individual country taking into account the culture, common infections and the patient population. The International Federation of Infection Control should be able to assist with this type of education. The nursing priorities for each country will vary and, whereas handwashing will remain a major priority, routine surveillance may be impracticable. The International Federation of Infection Control which was founded in 1987 is planning to take a lead in helping to set up organizations for infection control workers and to improve communications between organizations in different countries.