A HOSPITAL is playing its part in global hygiene campaign.
A special ‘glow box’ will be used at the Countess of Chester to demonstrate the need for good hand hygiene among staff and visitors.
The event later today (Wednesday) is being held all over the world. At the Countess, a special stall is being set up in the foyer, offering public the chance to use the ‘glow box’.
Countess infection control nurse Olwen Shipsides said: “When we have used the glow box before, people have responded really well – it is fun and interesting, and is an excellent way to illustrate the need to wash your hands well.”
Hands are coated in a solution containing ultra-violet substances, before the person taking part is asked to go and give them a good wash.
When they have finished, they place their hands in the box and see what glows – revealing how effective the washing has been.
Posters showing Max – the mascot of Global Hand Hygiene Day – will also be pinned up around the hospital. The event will take place simultaneously around the world, in 20 countries across five continents.
Countess infection control nurse Mike Woodward said: “We have a zero tolerance approach to healthcare-associated infections, and a fundamental method in achieving this is good hand hygiene.”
In an environment where cleanliness and germ control is essential, hand hygiene is often the first line of defence for staff, patients and visitors. As well as washing, alcohol foam is placed at the end of every bed, as well as the entrances to wards.
