[Resource conservation from the perspective of infection prevention]

Procedures to prevent surgical site infections require a high input of human, technical and natural resources. This paper explores ways to optimize the use of resources in caring for patients who undergo a surgical procedure without compromising patient safety.

Review of the contribution of selected procedures for infection prevention in surgical patients considering current evidence and recommendations by comparing current guidelines and results of clinical trials. Analysis of interventions to implement and increase compliance.

Knowledge of current evidence-based recommendations enables not only the identification of procedures with proven effect on infection prevention but also those that are ineffective and thus dispensable. There is still need for further controlled studies, e.g. on the use of antiseptics, that can confirm the evidence level of preventive procedures. Infection surveillance in combination with process and compliance monitoring by infection prevention specialists with a feedback system to healthcare workers are suitable control instruments for infection control management. In the case of increased infection rates, the implementation of evidence-based recommended measures through tailored bundle interventions is successful. Technical measures to maintain environmental conditions must be included in the control process.

The reduction of healthcare-associated infections by implementing tailored interventions of infection prevention measures and elimination of ineffective procedures conserves resources and promotes patient safety.