|
The HPA contributes to the implementation of work to minimise the occurrence of healthcare associated infection (HAI).
HAIs are normally associated with patients within a hospital, but they are also
relevant to any person in any healthcare setting, including primary care, who
acquires an infection while undergoing treatment or medical investigation. In
2006 the HPA was commissioned by the Department of Health Social Services and
Public Safety (DHSSPS), under Changing the Culture: An Action Plan for the
Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infections in Northern Ireland
2006/2009, to develop a generic hospital information leaflet to help minimise
the occurrence of HAI.
The resulting leaflet had a print run of one million. New patients will receive
the leaflet prior to being admitted to hospital. Posters were also produced and
displayed in hospitals to make visitors aware of the content and the availability
of the leaflets. The distribution of the leaflets dovetailed with a wider communications
strategy on HAI prevention by the DHSSPS.
Produced in 10 different languages, the leaflet included advice, information
and procedures for both patients and visitors, which included easy to follow
hand washing instructions based on the Ward Sisters’ Charter; an action plan
for cleaner hospitals in Northern Ireland, in line with World Health Organization
hand hygiene guidelines. Effective hand washing is recognised as a major contributor
in preventing and controlling HAI.
The clear, concise and easily comprehensible information for hospital patients and visitors sends the clear message that it is everyone's responsibility, including hospital staff, patients and the general public, to improve hygiene standards throughout the health service.
|
