Investigating the use of an electronic hand hygiene monitoring and prompt device: influence and acceptability.

Introduction: Hand hygiene (HH) prevents the transmission of healthcare-associated infections. Electronic HH monitoring and prompt devices have been developed to overcome problems with monitoring HH and to improve compliance. Devices monitor room entry and exit and soap use through communication between ceiling sensors and badges worn by practitioners and the badges sense alcohol rub.

Cleaning the hospital environment--a focus on Difficil-S.

Providing a healthcare environment that is aesthetically clean and microbiologically safe, remains a key component to combating the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). Patients now demand to be cared for in an environment that is conducive to healing without the fear of contracting an HCAI. The number of 'superbugs' are escalating, posing a challenge when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

Using the lived experiences of patients with Clostridium difficile infection to improve care.

Aim: To better understand the lived experiences and needs of patients who have Clostridium difficile infection.

Method: Interviews were conducted with 15 patients in an acute hospital using an interpretative phenomenological approach.

Results: Experiences vary and depend onthe severity of each individual patient's condition, among other factors.

A classification system for hospital-based infection outbreaks.

Outbreaks of infection within semi-closed environments such as hospitals, whether inherent in the environment (such as Clostridium difficile (C.Diff) or Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or imported from the wider community (such as Norwalk-like viruses (NLVs)), are difficult to manage. As part of our work on modelling such outbreaks, we have developed a classification system to describe the impact of a particular outbreak upon an organization.

Reducing the risks associated with urinary catheters.

The NHS strives to create and promote a safe environment for patient care in which risks are minimised. Urinary catheterisation is a common healthcare procedure but it is an invasive intervention that carries the risk of infection. Evidence-based guidelines have been developed to minimise the risks associated with these devices and to allow healthcare professionals to implement best practice at all times.

A pilot study to investigate patients reported knowledge, awareness, and beliefs on health care-associated infection.

Background: Health care-associated infections (HCAIs) remain a concern for patients, staff, and health care organizations. There is a lack of relevant literature on patients' views and opinions of infection control services.

Method: A descriptive study of 110 patients was undertaken utilizing a developed questionnaire to investigate patients' knowledge, perceptions, and beliefs around HCAIs.

The psychological impact of isolation.

Maurice Madeo describes the psychological effect of source isolation and strategies for dealing with the effects on the patient.