New review article on factors influencing healthcare-associated infections (HAI)

In the April issue of Hygiene & Medicine (HygMed 2022; 47(4)), a new review article of the HARTMANN SCIENCE CENTER has been published, addressing the comprehensive field of healthcare-associated infections.

It is well known that healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are a major problem worldwide. The prevention of HAI has been a global goal for many years. One obstacle to reducing hospital-acquired infections is the multitude of different factors that influence them. This article discusses the complexity and diversity of the individual factors that can directly or indirectly affect the rate of HAI. The factors influencing HAI are considered particularly from the perspective of German guidelines and legislation.

Three major topics are identified and examined in detail:

1. Processes and systems in the clinic
2. Staff
3. Patients

The core and result of the publication are recommendations for healthcare staff in the form of quickly comprehensible, clear toolboxes that are intended to facilitate implementation in practice.

Overview of direct and indirect factors influencing healthcare-associated infections. PPE, personal protective equipment; SOP, standard operating procedure (figure from HygMed 2022; 47(4)).

Practical recommendation for the area of processes and systems in the clinic (figure from HygMed 2022; 47(4)).