90949 - Hygiene seminar

Learning outcomes

The student will learn concepts related to the epidemiology of infectious diseases, infection prevention, hospital-acquired infections, issues arising from the collection and disposal of sanitary and non-sanitary waste, as well as radioactive waste.

The program provides general concepts of epidemiology and health prevention, precautions aimed at avoiding the spread of pathogens and the diffusion of environmental toxins, as well as safety, prevention, and health promotion in workplace environments.

It also covers notions, strategies, and classifications of prevention in medicine, as well as knowledge of the causes, dynamics, and consequences of emergencies that could impact the healthcare systems.

Course contents

The program, aimed at providing the foundation of the prevention of infectious risks in healthcare facilities and healthcare settings, will be structured as follows:

• modes of onset and transmission of infectious diseases and preventive measures, with a focus on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) (definitions, epidemiology, prevention methods, particularly regarding major diagnostic investigations and interventional procedures);
• prevention of infections and outbreaks caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens, including discussions related to literature cases;
• principles and best practices of environmental hygiene and management of sanitary waste for the prevention of HAIs;
• cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization based on risk classifications and guidelines, with particular attention to the treatment of medical devices.

Teaching methods

In-person classes with case studies and guided feedback.

Team working groups on selected literature cases and public discussion.

Teaching tools

Slides, research materials and other relevant documents.

Office hours

See the website of Stefano Guicciardi