Infection Control Today Magazine

Hand Hygiene

Proper and thorough hand hygiene, whether through the use of soap and water or use of hospital-grade, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, is the single most important practice supported by evidence to help eliminate cross-contamination and reduce the incidence of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs).

Hand Hygiene Monitoring Goes High-Tech

Although hand hygiene has been the target of continuous scrutiny, study and awareness campaigns, Erasmus, et al. (2010) say that substantial and lasting effects on compliance rates has been minimal. As healthcare institutions continue to wrestle with this issue, ...More
Yesterday
Posted in Articles, Hand Hygiene
Pairing Masks and Handwashing Could Drastically Slow Spread of Pandemic Flu

Masks and hand hygiene could cut the spread of flu-like symptoms up to 75 percent, a University of Michigan study found. ...More
2 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene, PPE & Standard Precautions
Radio-Frequency Identification Battles HAIs, Boosts Hand Hygiene

According to data in a U.S. public health report from 2007, healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) affect more than 2 million people in the U.S. annually and cause 100,000 deaths, while significantly raising hospitalization time and costs. Studies have shown a low level of ...More
2 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
Study Suggests Use of Antimicrobial Scrubs May Reduce Bacterial Burden on Healthcare Worker Apparel

The use of antimicrobial-impregnated scrubs combined with good hand hygiene is effective in reducing the burden of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on healthcare workers’ apparel and may potentially play a role in decreasing the risk of MRSA transmission ...More
3 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene, PPE & Standard Precautions
Multi-modal Infection Prevention Program Boosts Hand Hygiene Compliance

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) result in significant morbidity and mortality. Hand hygiene remains a cornerstone intervention for preventing HAIs. Unfortunately, adherence to hand hygiene guidelines among healthcare personnel is poor. Hanan Aboumatar MD, MPH, of ...More
3 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
HAI Watchdog Awards Program Accepting Entries Through January 31st

The 2011 HAI Watchdog Awards program is accepting entries through Jan. 31, 2012 in the U.S. and Canada. Sponsored by the www.HAIWatchdog.com community and Kimberly-Clark Health Care, the awards recognize outstanding healthcare-associated infection education and prevention ...More
4 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
Medline Introduces New Sustainable Packaging for Sterillium Comfort Gel Waterless Hand Sanitizer

Medline Industries, Inc., in partnership with BODE Chemie, announce the introduction of a new sustainable package for Sterillium® Comfort Gel waterless hand sanitizer. The new package was designed with 25 percent less plastic. The new design features a lighter, thinner ...More
5 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
Handwashing Signs Compel People to Follow Through with Hygiene Initiatives

JustBathroomSigns.com has released a new line of Wash Your Hands Signs especially for healthcare workers. These signs are designed to urge healthcare professionals to maintain the best hygiene practices possible. Unlike conventional signs that focus on the health of an ...More
5 weeks ago
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
Washing Away Illness

By Jennifer Wider, MD With holiday gatherings, New Year celebrations, and constant traveling, handwashing is one of the most important ways to prevent getting sick and spreading germs. Many illnesses, including the common cold, are spread by not washing hands properly with ...More
December 26, 2011
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene
2011 Year in Review: Hand Hygiene

ICT celebrates the end of the year by bringing you a review of the top news items and articles from 2011 related to hand hygiene. ...More
December 26, 2011
Posted in News, Hand Hygiene