Journal of Hospital Issues
Stopping Infections in Your Hospital
Hospitals are full of vectors of infectious diseases. According to estimates, about 1.7 million American hospital patients get a nosocomial infection each year. Health care facilities have a responsibility to be vigilant about protecting their patients from infections. There are many simple ways this can be achieved.
The majority of illnesses are spread through touch, so it is essential that hospitals have many hand-washing stations available to patients, visitors, and employees. Problems like E. coli and staph infections can be prevented by using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. However, these sanitizers do not kill all bacteria. Washing frequently with soap and water will help guarantee reduced infection outbreaks.
Hospitals should try to prevent illnesses before they spread. Diagnostic tests can detect infections, such as those caused by drug-resistant MRSA bacteria. Catching an infection early is a key step to stopping it in its tracks.
Finally, hospitals must have standard processes and tasks for procedures. For example, in intensive care units, nurses should brush their patient’s teeth regularly. This kills the bacteria that cause ventilator-associated pneumonia. Similarly, LPNs should have checklists of the steps for fitting patients with urinary catheters, since an improper fit can lead to infection. In addition, cleaning procedures for medical tools must be followed carefully. It is equally important not to contaminate sterilized tools.
