Hand Hygiene

Introduction Intact skin is the best barrier protection against microorganisms. The skin is the body ’s largest organ, covering a surface of approximately 2 square meters. It varies in thickness from 2-3mm. It is remarkably resilient and is an effective barrier to microorganisms. The human skin has an amazing ability to regenerate and renew itself in an orderly fashion. Today’s healthcare environment is demanding on the skin. Due to heightened concerns about the transmission of bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) as well as multiple drug-resistant organisms, there has been a focus by a number of federal and local agencies and regulating bodies on improving hand-washing compliance among all healthcare workers (HCWs). Education is a vehicle to provide knowledge and information so that healthcare workers; nurses, technicians, physicians and all allied healthcare providers, can make the informed, committed decision to do the right thing, improve compliance and have an impact on bringing and keeping hospital-acquired infections under control in our healthcare system.

Previous Page | Table of Contents | Next Page