In some cases using hand rubs is sufficient but hands should always be washed, by staff, patients and visitors if there is diarrhoea or vomiting on the ward.
Everyone should wash:
• after using the toilet
• before handling the patient’s food, fruit, sweets, cutlery, drinking glasses or plate
• when helping the patient with feeding
Remember: Alcohol rubs do not kill C. difficile spores
“In patients with MRSA bacteraemias the most frequent identifiable source was via invasive devices particularly peripheral cannulae and central venous cannulae” “tracheostomies and urinary catheters”
HPA 2008
Always ask if staff have washed their hands before procedures involving these devices.
Patient and Public Awareness Improves Staff Hygiene Compliance
Extensive research has been carried out which shows that educating patients and public increases hygiene compliance in staff. Research also shows that when doctors and senior staff follow the correct protocols all the ward staff are much more likely to follow suit. The reverse is also true. If senior staff are seen NOT to be following good hygiene practice it encourages nurses and care staff to be less committed to good practice. So please remember that it is “OK to Ask” any member of staff if they have washed their hands.
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