HOSPITALS & HEALTHCARE
SUPPORTING HEALTHCARE STAFF TO STAY WELL
Chris Wakefield, Managing Director UK & Ireland, GOJO Industries-Europe Ltd, discusses the specific hand hygiene needs in healthcare environments, and how this can help ease the burden of influenza (flu).
Seasonal influenza is a significant public health issue, associated with an increased demand for, and pressure, on the nation’s healthcare system. There is wide awareness of its impacts on the economy and people’s direct well- being – perhaps unsurprising given it can have serious consequences for the elderly and vulnerable. However, its broader effects receive far less attention.
These include productivity loss in the national workforce from sick days and, indeed, presenteeism. According to recent research by Rand Europe, more than half of UK working adults report continuing employment for at least some of the time they have the flu or are caring for a dependent with it, and are, on average, 35–46% less productive at jobs during this time.
Looking at its impact on the NHS more closely, healthcare-worker absenteeism rates are generally higher in more virulent flu seasons as well as during the Covid-19 pandemic. Some NHS stakeholders record 15– 20% of staff absent for approximately one week. Whilst the presenteeism culture among healthcare personnel in the UK may lower absenteeism rates, it also puts co-workers, patients, and the broader community at risk of infection.
Although flu vaccines are a powerful weapon, good hand hygiene is a critical measure in the battle against winter infections. For hospitals, healthcare, and long-term care settings, which support vulnerable and infirm patients, healthcare FMs should pay extra attention to their specific needs. Ensure that the protection solutions selected are suitable for everyone in the facility – staff, visitors, and patients alike.
Effective, skin-friendly formulations Soaps and sanitisers must not only have proven efficacy against germs but should be gentle enough to care for the delicate skin of elderly patients, as well as that of busy healthcare workers, who clean their hands
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repeatedly during a shift. Opt for formulations that meet key hospital norms (EN14476, EN12791, EN1500) and that are enriched with moisturisers, and clinically proven to maintain skin health.
The benefits are numerous: hands are cleaned effectively, protected from potential skin irritation, such as dermatitis, and compliance is likely to increase. If staff enjoy using the products, they will be more likely to use them consistently, which in turn, protects them and prevents infection from spreading. A poor experience, on the other hand, will result in the opposite being true.
Easy does it Hand hygiene systems in healthcare environments should incorporate easy-to-use dispensers. Consider touch-free dispensing units that are easier for the elderly and infirm to operate.
Make sure they are readily available too. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that hand hygiene points are conveniently sited at the point of care, ideally within arm’s reach of where patient care or treatment is taking place. Additionally, hand washing and sanitising stations should be positioned in high traffic areas, such as receptions, waiting areas, beside lifts, in canteens and eating areas, plus at all entrances and exits to each ward and the buildings themselves. Supplying hand sanitiser dispensers in these areas provides a visible prompt and can help reduce the threat.
Working with a trusted, specialist partner, like GOJO, can help FMs understand the unique hand hygiene challenges faced in healthcare environments and take steps to address these. This helps to increase adherence, and in turn, lessen the impact of the flu virus, boosting the health and well-being of everyone within the facility.
www.gojo.eu/uk twitter.com/TomorrowsFM
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