The varied programme covered current topics such as infection prevention in dialysis facilities, implementing EN 1500 in just 15 seconds, the economic impact of nosocomial infections, preventing post-operative wound infections, and the role of artificial intelligence and sustainability in healthcare.
The symposium included the following sessions:
The morning session focused on infection prevention in outpatient settings. The presentations made clear that good hygiene saves lives, and that this starts well before hospital.
In her presentation on hygiene in the ambulance service, Prof. Dr Irit Nachtigall (Vivantes Netzwerk für Gesundheit GmbH, Berlin) emphasized that 'we save more lives with good hygiene than in the ambulance service'. Despite the high workload, hand hygiene compliance during resuscitation protocols is only 7%. The solution lies in clear protocols, mobile dispensers, and targeted training.
PD Dr Tobias Kramer (LADR Laboratory Group Dr. Kramer & Colleagues, Geesthacht) demonstrated how the new AMDI surveillance system and structured processes can significantly reduce the risk of infection in outpatient dialysis.
Eva-Maria Riener-Stipsits (Kepler Universitätsklinikum GmbH, Linz) demonstrated how standardised sets can improve hygiene and halve material preparation time.
Dr Marco Krewing (HARTMANN SCIENCE CENTER, Hamburg) shared insights from microbial research: plastic-degrading pseudomonads currently do not pose a risk to medical devices as they only metabolise certain plastics. Additionally, Candida auris has been renamed Candidozyma auris.
The afternoon session focused on infection prevention in inpatient care, making the clear point that hygiene makes both medical and economic sense.
Prof. Dr Simone Scheithauer (University Medical Center Göttingen, Institut für Hygiene und Infektiologie, Göttingen) demonstrated impressively how effectively structured processes can prevent infections in everyday clinical practice. Fewer, more clearly defined indications lead to higher hand hygiene compliance — according to studies, 60% is a critical threshold value. The connection between workload and hygiene behaviour was also discussed.
Dr med univ Markus Wallner (University Hospital Salzburg, Universitätsinstitut für Klinische Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Salzburg) explained that hygiene deficiencies often occur when staff feel relaxed, for example during breaks together. Disinfection at the point of care is less common than in the corridors, for example, and this area needs to be optimised.
Prof. Dr Christian Eckmann (Klinikum Hannoversch-Muenden, Hann. Muenden) emphasised the severity of SSI cases, which cause financial losses and have a psychological impact, often going unnoticed even after discharge. Another positive effect of prevention is that fewer infections also mean fewer CO₂ emissions.
Prof. Dr Dirk Sauerland (Witten/Herdecke University, Faculty of Management, Economics and Society, Witten) showed that infections incur significant opportunity costs and consume valuable resources. He concluded that infection prevention pays off — medically, ethically, and economically.
Dr Jan Schröder (BODE Chemie for the HARTMANN SCIENCE CENTER, Hamburg) presented sustainable strategies for surface disinfection, with a particular focus on chemical agents, fragrances, wipe materials, and material compatibility.
Dr Christoph Senges (HARTMANN SCIENCE CENTER, Hamburg) demonstrated how technological innovations can alleviate the burden on hospital staff while ensuring quality. AI systems enable the early detection of infections and prediction of resistance, while smart plasters and transport robots improve processes. Automated compliance tracking also increases patient safety. The key to success is noticeable relief in everyday life.
