The Shocking Truth about Hospital Cleanliness: Prevention Tips and Statistics

Hospital staff members have overwhelming and fast-paced jobs. In addition to caring for numerous patients, they must constantly sterilize and sanitize themselves as well as the equipment and supplies they use. Regrettably, despite their best efforts, their actions are still not enough to ward off infections. When reviewing the following infographic, the facts about hospital cleanliness are sure to surprise you.

1 in 20 Inpatients Develop Hospital-Care-Related Infections

According to the infographic, one in every 20 inpatients develops an infection that is related to hospital care that presents an even higher mortality risk. Approximately 12% of the time, these infections are fatal. This accounts for almost 90,000 deaths each year. A significant percentage of these deaths could have been easily avoided if hospital personnel would adhere to caregiver prevention tips.

Hospitals are known to be breeding grounds for infection. Patients seek medical assistance to receive adequate health care, but they end up getting more than what they bargain for. A visit to the hospital can lead to a higher risk of infection than exposure to the elements outside. In close quarters with other sick and unwell patients, people receiving medical care are exposed to germs in a high-risk environment.

The Dangers of Dirty Hands and Poor Disinfection Practices

The two leading reasons for hospital infections are dirty hands and poor disinfection practices. This includes improperly disinfecting equipment like IV devices and catheters. If you ever feel like your nurse or doctor is not practicing proper hygiene, don’t be afraid to speak up. It is not worth risking your life or that of your loved ones. Infection control is essential for reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).

To minimize the risk of infections, hospitals must adopt strict infection control protocols. A rigorous hand hygiene program must be implemented by hospitals. The use of sanitizers containing alcohol, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and wearing gloves are all important components of a comprehensive infection prevention program.

According to the infographic, medical staff members are known to be the primary culprits in spreading infections. Medical personnel may be excellent in administering care, but they unintentionally spread infections by not thoroughly washing their hands. They spread germs from one patient to another, even when practicing adequate hand hygiene.

Furthermore, hand hygiene products that are routinely utilized in hospitals to control infection, such as Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG), can lead to skin damage and infections if not appropriately used. This is why proper education and training must accompany the utilization of all medical products and drugs.

Spread Awareness by Sharing Hospital Hygiene Risks

It is essential to be aware of the risks associated with hospital visits. You can do your part to minimize the chances of an HAI by insisting that the nurse or the doctor treating you properly sanitizes their hands before touching you or any medical equipment.

Hospital hygiene awareness is crucial in controlling the transmission of infections. Be sure to follow hospital hygiene protocol and best practices. For hospitals, keeping the facility clean at all times, and ensuring adherence to hand hygiene, adequate environmental cleanliness, and sterilization protocols is essential.

In Summary

The infographic on hospital cleanliness is a real eye-opener. Though the statistics concerning inpatients that develop infections related to hospital care are alarming, it is comforting to know that rigorous hand hygiene practices, environmental cleaning, and infection prevention protocols can significantly reduce the risk and spread of infections.

The responsibility for maintaining hospital hygiene is not exclusive to hospital staff alone. Patients, visitors, and family members can play a significant role in ensuring that the hospital’s hygiene protocol is adhered to. By encouraging healthcare providers to practice good hand hygiene and complying with infection control recommendations, we can change the statistics on HAI-associated mortality.

As the saying goes, “cleanliness is next to godliness.” We must strive to ensure that hospitals adhere to proper hygiene protocols, and that we do our part to prevent the spread of infections. It is time to prioritize cleanliness, and ensure the safety and well-being of all those receiving and providing medical care.