Welcome to the course on environmental cleaning. This course contains several videos on maintaining a clean environment to prevent infection. You can access a transcript of the videos at any time using the tools button above.
Click each essential on the left to learn more about environmental cleaning and the other essentials of infection prevention.
The first essential of infection prevention is using proper hand hygiene. Taking the time to wash your hands decreases the spread of infections. One study found that after direct contact with a patient infected with Clostridium difficile, 59% of healthcare professionals' hands tested positive for the germs.
Knowing your role is another essential of infection prevention. Be aware of what you need to do to protect yourself and others from healthcare associated infections. You are the essential component of infection prevention.
Continually assess your environment to make sure there aren't any risk factors for spreading infections. Watch for improper hand hygiene, misuse of personal protective equipment, or even incorrect cleaning methods.
Another essential in infection prevention is maintaining a clean environment. Knowing and using proper cleaning techniques prevents the spread of infections. The videos in this course will help you learn more about this essential.
Reviewing antibiotic and catheter use is the final essential of infection prevention. Overuse of antibiotics decreases the body's ability to fight infection. Likewise, incorrect or unnecessary catheterization can lead to healthcare associated infections. By reviewing the use of antibiotics and catheters, you can help prevent infections.