How to Prevent Infections

Five Essentials of Prevention

 

Facilities' Prevention Plans

 

Prevent the Infection 1

 

Prevent the Infection 2

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Healthcare associated infections are dangerous - for patients, residents, their families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Now that you know the specifics, including some preventative techniques, this module looks at the five essentials that will help you prevent infection. It then gives you two opportunities to practice preventing an infection.

Click each essential on the left to learn more about it.

Now, click Next to continue.

1. Use Hand Hygiene

Hand hygiene is the best way to prevent the spread of infections. Hand hygiene means washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Things to remember:

•         Use hand hygiene at the key moments shown at right. (Click Tools to see a checklist of the key moments.)

•         Ask healthcare providers, caregivers, visitors, and others to use hand hygiene.

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2. Know Your Role

You have a role in infection prevention. Know and share the Five Essentials of Infection Prevention with others. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or a staff member in a healthcare setting, you should:

•         Be active in infection prevention.

•         Speak up if you have a concern.

•         Be aware of possible infection risks.

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3. Assess and Manage Risk

Being informed, alert, and taking action in situations that can cause infection will help keep you safe. You should:

•         Pay attention to infection risks. (Click Tools for an Infection Risks Checklist.)

•         Provide information to your healthcare providers so they can assess infection risks.

•         Take action to protect yourself and others.

•         Use personal protective equipment if recommended.

•         Educate yourself regarding health issues and risk factors.

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4. Maintain a Clean Environment

Know and use proper cleaning procedures to prevent the spread of infections. The area and items around you must be clean and disinfected.

Recognize and clean “high touch” areas, which are areas touched often by many people:

•         Door knobs and handles.

•         Call buttons and phones.

•         Chair arms and overbed tables.

•         Sinks and faucets.

•         Medical equipment.

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5. Review Antibiotic and Catheter Use

Overuse of antibiotics decreases the body's ability to fight infection. Incorrect or unnecessary catheterization can lead to healthcare associated infections.

Things to know:

•         Antibiotics do not work on viruses.

•         Catheters should only be used when absolutely necessary and removed as soon as possible.

•         Hand hygiene must be followed when caring for or handling a catheter.