Working in a hospital environment really makes you realize certain thing you have taken for granted. The majority of our policies and procedures were based around disease control. Add 100 staff and 600 volunteers into the mix and you get a myriad of variables to account for. Gowns, booties, masks, etc. are all a part of daily life in my job. But sometimes you get so caught up in all these extra precautions you forget the basics. Always wash your hands.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), “Keeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water.”
It’s generally best to wash your hands with soap and water. Sometimes soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can reduce the number of germs on hands in some situations, but keep in mind sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.
When to wash your hands
Always wash your hands before:
•Preparing food or eating
•Treating wounds, giving medicine, or caring for a sick or injured person
•Inserting or removing contact lenses
Always wash your hands after:
•Preparing food, especially raw meat or poultry
•Using the toilet or changing a diaper
•Touching an animal or animal toys, leashes, or waste
•Blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hands
•Treating wounds or caring for a sick or injured person
•Handling garbage, household or garden chemicals, or anything that could be contaminated
•Smoking a cigarette
When washing, remind employees that they should be washing all surface areas thoroughly. It should take longer than a few seconds to wash properly. If you are concerned consider hanging posters in employee washrooms to remind them about proper handling washing techniques. It is always better to prevent issues whenever possible.
