Back to basics
October 1st 2007

Frank Ledosquet,marketing manager West Europe for Metsä Tissue, discusses the importance of thorough hand washing practices for the healthcare setting

The government has announced plans for a new dress code for hospital staff under new regulations aimed at reducing the spread of hospital-borne infections.The 'bare below the elbows' policy, due to come into effect next year, will mean an end to the traditional doctor's long sleeved white coat, fake nails, jewellery, watches and ties.

According to the Department of Health these items of clothing and accessories 'perform no beneficial function in patient care and have been shown to be colonised by pathogens'.

Hospital acquired infection rates in the UK have been a cause for concern for some time now and these new measures are part of a plan aimed at tackling this growing problem.However, the simple fact remains that hand washing is the single most important thing we can do to prevent the spread of germs and reduce the number of deadly infections in our hospitals.

Implementing good hand hygiene practice in all hospitals and educating health professionals about the importance of this is vital.

Washing hands is still the most effective way of tackling the growing problem of superbugs such as MRSA and clostridium-difficile, which have so far proved resistant to most antibiotic treatments.A new dress code will help in the fight against hospital acquired infections, but the best way to eradicate these potentially fatal germs is still to ensure hands are washed and dried properly.

Most people are unaware that making sure hands are dried effectively is equally as important as washing hands properly with soap and water. If hands are not dried properly they become the ideal breeding ground for germs to multiply since bacteria thrive in damp conditions. If hands are washed with soap and water but not dried, around 13 per cent of bacteria will remain – ready to be passed on through contact.However, by washing with soap and water and then drying with a paper towel will reduce bacterial contamination by 98 per cent . Paper towels not only soak up the excess moisture but the wiping action physically helps remove the bacteria.

When it comes to the healthcare setting, the quality of paper towel becomes increasingly important.Typically health workers will wash their hands between 40 and 60 times in a single shift and using a poor quality towel to dry hands could lead to chaffing and further skin problems. Poor quality towels absorb less moisture and will therefore leave hands damp and more prone to bacteria growth.

Dampness caused by ineffective drying can lead to irritation which in turn can damage the skin causing it to become dry and sore.This is not only causes discomfort but will encourage bacteria growth. Katrin has a range paper products designed specifically to suit different hand drying needs.

It is scientifically proven that good hand hygiene practice is a major factor in reducing the spread of disease.A more hygienic dress code will help but hospitals must have strict hand washing procedures in place.This, combined with touch-free dispensing solutions such as those in the Katrin range, will go a long way in helping to control this problem. For further info, call the number below or enquire online at: www.cleaning-matters.co.uk

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