In early October, Infection Prevention observed that rates of C. diff, CLABSI and CAUTI were higher than expected and climbing. We launched an audit to learn if hand hygiene compliance was truly at the reported 92 percent average across the organization. Unfortunately, our audit found that compliance was only at 69 percent.
Infection Prevention and EVS began a four step problem solving (4SPS) to increase organization-wide compliance with hand hygiene measures. Working with staff from across the organization, the 4SPS is designed to reduce the rate of C. diff, CLABSI and CAUTI. Audit training and implementation of new tests of change will begin by late 2017. Many service areas have already begun their own initiatives to improve compliance.
Wash your hands
As winter and flu season approach, it’s important for providers to lead by example and encourage other staff to wash their hands. Thank you for doing your part to prevent hospital-acquired infections. Please visit the Infection Prevention SharePoint site to download useful information and hand hygiene fliers.