How can healthcare workers best curtail hospital-acquired infections?
“I am fairly new to infection control, but by studying and learning, I have discovered handwashing is the No. 1 line of defense for fighting nosocomial infections. Since becoming an infection control nurse almost two years ago, a main component of my staff education has been hand hygiene. Physicians and nurses have the knowledge but laxity of practice overrides. Nurses complain about high patient assignments that relate to time, (with) no time to wash hands. If handwashing is done, it usually is not done properly. Proper hand hygiene is one of the best methods to decrease the transmission of pathogens in healthcare facilities. Vigorously washing of hands with soap and water is the most defensive way to help prevent nosocomial infections.” Sonya Kay Ehrhardt, RN Infection Control Nurse, The Regional Medical Center of Orangeburg and Calhoun Counties, S.C. A: “I recommend compliance with four very basic and effective infection control interventions: 1. Hand hygiene. Make every effort to k
