Strategies for Infection Prevention and Control in Clinical Environments: A Review of Protocols from the Laboratory to the Operating Room"

Abstract

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a significant global challenge, contributing to increased patient morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and rising healthcare costs. Effective infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies are therefore essential across all clinical environments, ranging from diagnostic laboratories to high-risk areas such as operating rooms. This review examines current IPC protocols and practices implemented in clinical settings, with a particular focus on their application, effectiveness, and challenges. Core strategies discussed include standard and transmission-based precautions, hand hygiene compliance, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental cleaning and disinfection, sterilization of medical instruments, and safe waste management. The review also highlights the importance of laboratory biosafety measures, including specimen handling, containment procedures, and staff training, to prevent occupational exposure and cross-contamination.