Hand Hygiene for Patients and Visitors

Hand hygiene is of the utmost importance at a hospital. Hospitals have high concentrations of very ill people, those with compromised immune systems, the very young and the very old. Patients are highly susceptible to bacteria and other pathogens. Not only are patients at risk, but those who visit patients also run the risk of contracting illnesses.

Washing your hands is one of the most basic defenses against the spread of germs and bacteria. Hands commonly come in contact with the face, where germs easily enter through the mouth, nose and eyes. During flu season, it is especially important to follow basic hygiene rules to prevent the spread of flu viruses.

Hand Hygiene for Patients

Hospital patients are as susceptible to germs as nurses and doctors are. Patients are expected to follow general hygiene guidelines.

Always wash your hands after going to the bathroom.
Never assume that all hospital workers are germ free. Wash your hands or use antibacterial gel after you come in contact with doctors, nurses, orderlies or housekeepers.
Always wash your hands before eating.
Never touch dressings, wounds, or IV lines.
Ask visitors to stay home if they are sick.
If you are in doubt, ask your health care workers if they have cleaned their hands.

For Visitors

Visitors are also under an obligation to maintain hygiene habits when in the hospital. Patients are already in a compromised state and outside contaminates can be especially damaging. Consider the health of those you are visiting and those around you as you enter the hospital.

Always wash your hands both before seeing a patient and after you leave.
In the absence of soap and water, use antibacterial gel, available from dispensers in each hospital room and in hallways.
Never touch wounds, bandages, IV lines, catheters or tools used to treat the patient.
Stay home if you are sick.

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