Infection Control Week
October 2004

Infection Control Week should remind us of the importance of preventing the spread of infection within the hospital. Infection Control is everyone’s responsibility. This includes all hospital staff, visitors, and patients’ family members.

CHECK BACK SOON FOR LECTURE SCHEDULE!

It's not just kid's stuff...

Hand Hygiene Prevents Infections!

Hand Hygiene is the most important action that you can take to prevent the spread of infection. You’ll see signs around the hospital about Hand Hygiene, and if you talk to an infection control professional (ICP) you will get the same message--Hand Hygiene prevents infections. Practice good hand hygiene with soap and water washes for 15 seconds or the use of waterless hand sanitizer. This is an alcohol hand disinfectant in containers conveniently placed outside patient rooms and around the hospital. See our policy for more information.

Now there are TWO acceptable practices for proper hand hygiene, a 10-15 second wash with soap and water or using a WATERLESS product.

Handwashing Steps: 1. WET HANDS FIRST 2. APPLY SOAP 3. LATHER HANDS FOR 10-15 SECONDS 4. RINSE HANDS 5. TURN OFF FAUCET WITH PAPER TOWEL.

WATERLESS HAND HYGIENE:
What is instant hand sanitizer? It’s a waterless alcohol hand disinfectant.
How does it work? It kills 99.99% of most common germs that may cause illness in as little as 15 seconds, including MRSA and VRE.
	How effective is it? It’s faster acting and more effective than soap and water.
	Will it dry out my skin? No. it contains skin moisturizers and is made to be gentle and leaves hands soft without a sticky residue- not drying and irritating like soap and water.
	When should I use it? Before and after each patient contact fter removing gloves Before any procedure and before touching any patient device After touching environmental surfaces and handling medical equipment
How do I use it? Pump a nickel sized amount onto your hands. Rub between your fingers and under fingernails, until they are dry (about 15 seconds). There is no need to use paper towels.
Do I still need to wash my hand if I use it? You need to wash your hand with soap and water if they become visibly soiled with dirt, blood, or body fluids.
What is it made of? It’s made of ethyl alcohol plus skin conditioners.
	Thanks to the students from grades 1-5 at Immaculate Conception School in Towson, MD (teacher Pat Kreamer) and the girls from grades 6-8 at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Towson, MD (teacher Melinda Berger).