Simple Steps To Minimize A Patient's Risk For Acquiring A Hospital Infection

Hospital acquired infections can increase the lengthreduces transmission of infections among patients.
of a patient’s stay, be costly and increaseHaving an alcohol based foam or gel in each
morbidity, according to The World Healthpatient’s room is a simple step hospitals can
Organization. There are some simple stepstake. This makes cleaning hands easy and quick
hospitals can take to decrease hospital infections.for staff.
All staff should be trained in hospital infectionProper sterilization and cleaning of equipment helps
control polices and follow all guidelines. Trainingcut the risk of hospital acquired infections. Cleaning
staff properly and ensuring they follow guidelinesmedical devices, such as stethoscopes and blood
is the first step in reducing hospital acquiredpressure cuffs, between patients greatly reduces
infections.infections.
Hand washing is a simple practice which plays aSpecial precautions should be taken when patients
large role in hospital infection control. Washinghave devices in place which increase the chances
hands prior to working with a patient and afterfor infection. Notably, catheters, breathing tubes
care is completed reduces transference ofand IV ports are used in areas where infections
infections among patients. In addition, usingmay develop frequently.
protective equipment, such as gloves and gowns,