Verbal hand-hygiene reminders In hospitals may curb infections

Voice-based electronic monitoring systems showed a 61.4 percent decrease in HAIs


Research on a voice-based electronic hand hygiene monitoring systems showed a 61.4 percent decrease in healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs), across 10 hospitals, according to an article on the Healio website. The findings were reported at a recent conference for the Association for Professionals in Infection Control Epidemiology.

The system includes an audible reminder in the form of a human voice that reminds healthcare facility staff to sanitize their hands. Bluetooth technology in a badge worn by the healthcare workers communicates with IoT sensors affixed to soap and sanitizer dispensers in patient care areas. 

When the staffer walks into or out of a patient’s room, the IoT sensors detect that. Th worker has a certain number of seconds to dispense sanitizer or soap. If they don’t,  a "Real-Time Voice Reminder" is triggered. The standard reminder is an audio file of a female voice that says, “Please sanitize.” 

In rooms where a patient has C. difficile, the voice changes to “soap and water only” upon the staffer's exit, since sanitizer does not kill C. diff. spores. 

Read the article.


July 2, 2019


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Over 700 Hospitals at Risk of Closure

Hospitals are citing financial problems at the main cause of potential closure.


Astrana Health Fully Acquires Prospect Health

They completed the acquisition of Prospect Health for a total purchase price of $708 million.


Hospitals Recognized for Sustainability, Resilience Achievements

The 496 healthcare organizations have demonstrated leadership in sustainability, environmental stewardship and climate resilience.


Caravel Autism Health Opens New Therapy Clinic in Missouri

The clinic features colorful, sensory-friendly spaces.


On the Lookout: The Software Supply Chain as a Healthcare Cyberattack Vector

Staying watchful of third-party software vendors and their activities is critical for healthcare cybersecurity.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.