Klinische Infektionskrankheiten: Open Access

Infection Control in Healthcare Settings: Lessons from the Pandemic

Abstract

Sawicki Tomasz

Infection control is the practice of preventing and managing the spread of infections within healthcare facilities. It encompasses a range of measures, from hand hygiene and personal protective equipment use to isolation protocols and environmental cleaning. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought infection control to the forefront of healthcare, revealing both strengths and areas for improvement. Hand hygiene has long been recognized as a fundamental component of infection control. The pandemic reinforced the importance of thorough handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers. Healthcare workers and the public alike have become more vigilant about hand hygiene as a result of the pandemic. PPE, including masks, gloves, gowns and face shields, became essential in protecting healthcare workers and patients during the pandemic. Ensuring the proper use and availability of PPE is crucial for infection control, not only during pandemics but in routine healthcare as well. The pandemic highlighted the potential for airborne transmission of infectious diseases. Adequate ventilation, air filtration and the use of airborne precautions are now recognized as critical infection control measures, particularly in settings where aerosol-generating procedures are performed.