Hand Hygiene Practices and Their Impact on Compliance
Author Information
Author(s): John M. Boyce
Primary Institution: Hospital of St. Raphael
Hypothesis
Does improved access to hand hygiene facilities increase compliance among health-care workers?
Conclusion
Improved access to hand hygiene facilities significantly increases compliance among health-care workers.
Supporting Evidence
- Handwashing compliance improved from 25% to 48% with better access to alcohol dispensers.
- Nurses reported less skin irritation when using alcohol hand gel compared to soap and water.
- Patients near sinks had a 26% lower risk of nosocomial infections.
Takeaway
If nurses can easily wash their hands, they are more likely to do it, which helps keep patients safe from infections.
Methodology
The study involved observing handwashing compliance in different ICU settings and comparing the effects of alcohol-based hand gel versus soap and water.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported compliance and preferences for hand hygiene products.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing hand hygiene compliance, such as personal attitudes and varying opportunities for handwashing.
Participant Demographics
29 nurses from three hospital wards participated in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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