D u k e Details - Advanced Clinical Practice - Duke University

Infection ControlHow do your actions of practicinginfection prevention promote patientsafety?Infection Control practices include:• Adherence to hand hygiene• Following precautions• Following isolation policies• Using aseptic technique for central venousline insertion• Always wearing appropriate PersonalProtective Equipment (PPE)• Following construction guidelines• Reducing health care associated infections• Health care workers getting influenzavaccines yearly, and• Following respiratory etiquette for patientsand staffHandwashing is the single most effective methodto prevent the transmission of infection. Wash for15 seconds using hospital supplied antimicrobialsoap and water. An alcohol-based waterless agent,located in strategic locations in patient care areasand throughout Duke North and South, can be usedinstead of regular handwashing in most instances.Recent studies have shown that the waterlessalcohol agents are effective against resistant organismssuch as MRSA and VRE. To be effective, it mustbe rubbed on the hands for at least 15 seconds.The alcohol agents can not be used for patientswith Clostridium Difficile or when visible soiling is evident.In such instances, hands must be washed withsoap & water.28s