Mangaluru, June 26, 2025 – Yenepoya Nursing College, in collaboration with the Infection Prevention and Control Unit of Yenepoya Medical College Hospital (YMCH) and the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) – Karnataka State Branch, hosted a state-level workshop titled “Breaking the chain of HAIs: Stewardship, Safety and Surveillance”. The event took place on the Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) campus and focused on advancing knowledge and practices in the prevention and control of Hospital Acquired Infections (HAIs).

Inauguration and dignitaries

The workshop was formally inaugurated by Dr. Habib Rahaman A A, Medical Superintendent of YMCH. In his inaugural address, he emphasised the pressing need for robust infection control mechanisms in hospitals to reduce HAI-related morbidity and mortality.

The guest of honour, Mrs. K. M. Sathya Devi, Nursing Superintendent of YMCH, addressed the role of nursing leadership in implementing effective safety protocols.

Dr. Leena K.C., Principal of Yenepoya Nursing College, presided over the function. She highlighted the responsibility healthcare institutions carry in fostering a culture of patient safety and continuous professional development.

Expert sessions on stewardship, safety, and surveillance

The workshop featured four expert sessions conducted by eminent resource persons:

  • Dr. Rouchelle C. Tellis, Infection Prevention and Control Officer, YMCH – “Diagnostic and Antimicrobial Stewardship”

  • Mrs. Noothan Lasrado, Deputy Nursing Superintendent, YMCH – “Occupational Safety”

  • Dr. Pallavi Choudhary, Assistant General Manager, Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemicals, Mumbai – “Best Practices in Disinfection”

  • Mrs. Reema Dsouza, Infection Control Nurse, Justice K. S. Hegde Charitable Hospital, Mangaluru – “Preventing Hospital-Associated Infections”

    • Each speaker brought valuable insights from clinical and industrial perspectives, encouraging participants to adopt evidence-based practices in infection control.

    Accreditation and participation

    The Karnataka State Nursing Council (KSNC) accredited the workshop with 8 credit points, recognising its relevance and impact on continuing nursing education. Dr. Aldrin Vas, Professor, Thejaswini College of Nursing, Mangaluru, attended the event as the KSNC observer.

    A total of 60 registered nurses from various hospitals across Mangaluru and surrounding regions actively participated in the sessions. The workshop served as a vital platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and reinforcing the role of nurses in curbing the rise of HAIs.

    Conclusion

    The workshop concluded with a renewed call for interdisciplinary collaboration and consistent surveillance in healthcare settings to reduce the burden of hospital-associated infections. Yenepoya Nursing College reaffirmed its commitment to promoting patient safety and high standards in nursing education and practice.