By Tom Bergin / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today

As the majority of healthcare professionals know, there is an undeniable connection between hand hygiene and better health. Hand hygiene is the most simple and effective way to prevent the spread of infection. Research garnered through SCA’s Global Hygiene Matters Survey however, revealed existing critical gaps in consumer trust and perception of hand hygiene, particularly within healthcare facilities.

The survey identified that infection spread remains a serious concern for healthcare patients – with hospitals perceived as the second riskiest environment for contamination. While the merits of hand washing are widely acknowledged, the results demonstrate a clear perceived need for greater hygiene compliance. Although 84 percent of respondents say they wash their hands enough, 76 percent believe others don’t wash their hands as often as they should.

The need to strengthen patient care and safety measures is further reflected in the recent ruling of the Centers of Medicate & Medicaid Services (CMS). Intended to enhance the well-being of the residents and facilities that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs, these policies seek to reduce unnecessary hospital readmissions and infections through mandatory rejuvenation of hospital-wide infection prevention and control programs.

In response to current consumer concerns, healthcare providers must introduce modern measures that decrease and monitor the incidents of hospital-acquired conditions.

To keep hand hygiene top of mind and adhere to the new CMS policies, engaging signage must be developed and updated regularly throughout facilities. Tork Healthy Hands website for example, allows providers to create customizable content to remind and educate staff, patients and visitors about facility hygiene processes and best practices.

The strategic placement of dispensers - from paper towels, soap, wipes and sanitizer - is also an effective way of improving facility-wide compliance. In fact, the proper positioning of dispensers has been proven to increase dispenser use by more than 50 percent. To assist with determining optimal dispenser locations across hospital entrance, semi-private and private rooms, and the nurse station, providers can look to resources like SCA’s Inspiration Visuals.

The survey also revealed the consumer belief that technology, like modernized healthcare facilities, can play a significant role in making our lives healthier. These results should inspire providers to seek modernized equipment that assists with enforcing, monitoring and evolving quality and safety practices. By using Tork EasyCube™ Intelligent Restroom System, for example, real-time data is gathered from each dispenser to improve cleaning routines, help manage inventory and ensure dispensers are stocked and ready for use.   

As hospital-acquired infections affect one in 25 patients, providers must work together to improve the safety of those who trust us with their health. As CMS continues its focus on patient centric care, it’s an opportune time to combat current consumer perceptions by re-evaluating our current hygiene practices, and introducing new measures that improve the patient experience.

Tom Bergin is the marketing director for SCA’s Away from Home Professional Hygiene business in North America.