[Basic hygiene measures in the delivery room-also during a pandemic]

Area of Science:

• Infection Control
• Clinical Obstetrics
• Healthcare Hygiene

Context:

• The German Infection Protection Act mandates effective measures to prevent nosocomial infections in clinics.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for robust hygiene protocols in healthcare settings.
• This study focuses on hygiene practices within clinical obstetrics, specifically in delivery rooms.

Purpose:

• To compile essential hygiene measures for clinical obstetrics.
• To develop evidence-based recommendations for hygienic childbirth care.
• To align practices with relevant German guidelines for delivery room procedures.

Summary:

• Recommendations for surface disinfection involve risk-categorization and integration into facility hygiene plans.
• Hand disinfection is identified as the most effective method for preventing nosocomial infections, emphasizing consistent application.
• Specific standards for water birth management and tub maintenance are proposed, requiring regular effectiveness monitoring.

Impact:

• Ensuring consistent implementation of hygiene guidelines requires ongoing commitment and perseverance.
• Adherence to disinfection protocols helps prevent the selection of disinfectant-tolerant germs.
• Tailored hygiene rules are necessary during pandemics to address specific pathogen risks.