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.