7 Things You Must Know About Infection Control in Hospitals
Bacteria, virus and germs, some of which are capable of causing deadly diseases in human beings, find it very easy to survive in our bodies. Human bodies provide them the right temperature, water and fluids in the various organs and food in our blood. Not only do they harm the host bodies but they also get transmitted, leaving more people sick. For instance, a sneeze can transmit germs into the air at a great speed, thus spreading the infection at a greater speed. Every time we touch a baby or a patient without washing hands, we are transferring all our microbes to them.
A discipline should be in place which mandates on the precautionary measures one has to take to control the spread of infections. Infection Control is a set of rules and guidelines which are in place in every hospital, clinic and health care facility. While the heath care and medical staff is required to religiously follow the guidelines, it is important for all of us to follow them as it is only beneficial. Here are a list of 7 things you must know about infection control in hospitals.
– Why is infection control important?
In hospitals, there are sick people, patients who are on the path of recovery, newborns and many others who require medical assistance. They are at a risk of contracting infections from the other sick patients, visitors and guests. They need to be provided a highly sterile environment, free from germs and microbes, which will facilitate their recovery.
– Who is at a high risk of contacting infections?
Patients, newborns, sick adults, people suffering from diabetes, patients recovering from surgery, patients on antibiotics, patients who require special care and others in the hospital who have come there to recover.
– Who else is at a risk?
Doctors, nurses, support medical staff, visitors, hospital staff and all those who may visit the hospital are at a risk.
– How do infections spread?
Infections may spread by direct contact like touching an open wound without protection or unwashed hands or indirect contact like touching something infected. They may also be airborne when the microbes may be transferred through sneeze and cough.
– How can one prevent the spread of infection?
By practicing the infection control, the transmission of infection can be reduced.
– When and how should you wash your hands?
Hand wash should be done for at least 15 seconds with a disinfectant and water. Hands should be washed before and after meeting with the patient and after sneezing, using the toilet, or blowing your nose. You must also wash hands before and after handling food items and handling dirty items.
– How else can you prevent infections?
Take good care of the sick person. Sterilize their towels, crockery and other items of their use. If you suspect some infections or sickness, refrain from visiting the hospital as it may put the health of the other patients also in danger. Do not leave food in the open for it may attract flies. Be cautious while gifting for flowers and plants may trigger infections in some patients.
With proper care and hygiene, infections and health problems can be kept at a bay and the patients can recover quickly. Infection control as a discipline helps maintain personal hygiene which can benefit your family and loved ones.
For more information, please visit our infection control website.
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