Hand hygiene is the #1 way to prevent infections.
If done correctly, it removes germs and prevents them from transferring from person to person.
At Hartford HealthCare, all caregivers are expected to clean their hands every time, before and after they enter a patient’s room with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
Patients and visitors also should clean their hands before eating, after using the bathroom or when
entering or exiting a patient care area.
Hand washing tips
- When using soap and water: make sure to clean all areas of your hands, including between your fingers and around the fingertips and thumbs. Clean for at least 20 seconds. Use soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty or if you are concerned about germs that cause diarrhea.
- If using hand sanitizer, hands should be rubbed until they are dry and make sure to get between the fingers.
Isolation precautions
Isolation precautions can be short or long in duration of need based on the type of infection a patient has. If a patient needs isolation precautions, a sign will be on the door to show the type of protective equipment that is needed. This can include items such as a gown and gloves, face mask, respirator mask or eye protection, depending on the infection.
Please help us stop the spread of germs by wearing the correct protective equipment if you are visiting a patient who has one of these signs on the door. This will protect you and the patient. Please remember to wash your hands before putting on and after removing protective equipment.
How can you help?
- Let us know if we forget to clean our hands before we care for you. We appreciate the friendly reminder.
- Please ask friends or family with fever, cough, runny nose, or cold symptoms not to visit you while they are sick.
- If you have an IV or catheter for medication and notice the bandage is dirty or coming loose, please let your caregiver know. Also, ask your healthcare team daily if you still need it.
- Speak up if you have any concerns.
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