A hand hygiene campaign has been launched across the Department of Health and Social Care.
 
The Keep ‘em Clean campaign, led by the Department’s Infection Prevention and Control team, aims to raise awareness that good hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent healthcare-associated infection, reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses.
 
Keep ‘em Clean encourages patients and visitors to ask staff if they have washed their hands before care is given – ‘it’s ok to ask’ badges will be worn by staff. Educational information will be displayed in the foyer at Noble’s Hospital, Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital, the Central Community Health Centre, Thie Rosien, and Peel Medical Centre.
 
A revised hand hygiene leaflet for patients and visitors has been published providing information on washing hands and using alcohol based hand rub.
 
Year 10 students from St Ninian’s High School studying GCSE Business Studies have taken part in a poster design competition, with the winners being presented with a certificate and prize by Minister Quayle during the launch event.
 
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said: “Reaching out into the community raises awareness of the importance of infection control and prevention. Well done to the students for an exceptionally high standard of artwork and graphic design.
 
“One of the most effective ways of maintaining our low healthcare–associated infection rate and thereby protecting the most vulnerable being cared for in healthcare settings is to practice good hand hygiene.”
 
Refresher training for staff on best hygiene practice will take place at Noble’s Hospital, Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital and the Central Community Health Centre.
 
Gaynor Roberts, Specialist Nurse in Infection Prevention and Control said: “Effective hand hygiene will protect you and others by helping to reduce the transfer of micro-organisms (germs) to other people.  Remember that even if your hands look clean, they may still be carrying germs – this is why it is so important to clean your hands regularly. This prevents transferring infection from home, school, GP surgeries, hospitals and other healthcare settings.”