due today

Re: Topic 2 DQ 1

I agree with the notion of infection prevention through the simple and inexpensive task of hand washing, yet research sows that the infection transmission in the healthcare setting can be much lower than it currently is. Hand hygiene is described by many health care workers as the single most important tool in preventing the spread of health care-associated infections between patients and is considered the simplest, yet most effective way in preventing and breaking the chain of infections. On any given day, about one in 31 hospital patients has at least one healthcare-associated infection. Practicing hand hygiene though considered a very simple task is not put into practice enough in the healthcare setting.Although one of the key measures for the prevention and control of healthcare-associated infections remains the routine washing of hands before, between, and after patient contacts in healthcare settings, compliance or adherence to hand washing protocols among healthcare professionals— a behavioral attribute— remains wanting (Mayhall, 2011). Cleaning your hands can prevent the spread of germs, including those that are resistant to antibiotics and are becoming difficult, if not impossible, to treat. Regular hand washing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. Whether at home, at work, traveling, or out in the community.

Why do you think that healthcare professionals are so oblivious to this simple and effective task of hand washing, although they know the detriments of not doing so?

Mayhall, C. G. (Ed.). (2011). Hospital epidemiology and infection control. ProQuest Ebook Central https://ebookcentral-proquest-com.lopes.idm.oclc.org