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Carrie says good hand hygiene is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections, which makes it a key safety priority when looking after any patient. The World Health Organization have identified that hands are the main route of germ transmission in healthcare.

“There are a number of infectious diseases that can be spread from one person to another by contaminated hands,” she says.

“These diseases include gastrointestinal infections, such as salmonella, and respiratory infections, such as influenza and COVID-19. Germs can also enter wounds and via medical devices such as catheters, and IV lines.”

For paramedics hand washing is a consistent focus, with many considerations taken into account.

“Many of our patients are vulnerable and their immune systems may be compromised or not developed yet, such as in young infants. We are also going in and out of hospital, aged and residential premises and hospices where infections can spread quickly, and can have a catastrophic effect to a person`s health.”

“On induction to Wellington Free Ambulance, all staff are taught about the importance of maintaining hand hygiene and when to wear personal protective equipment. Ongoing, our Quality Improvement and Innovation team have developed resources which staff can access as required, along with our infection prevention and control champions who help us promote best practice. We are also developing e-learning resources for staff.”

Carrie says washing hands regularly during the day is important, and highlights the World Health Organisation’s 5 key moments of hand hygiene in healthcare below:

1. before touching a patient,
2. before clean/aseptic procedures,
3. after body fluid exposure/risk,
4. after touching a patient, and.
5. after touching patient surroundings.

“When dealing with body fluids, gloves are required but it is important to wash hands after removing gloves or use alcohol gel for 20 seconds when handwashing facilities are not available,” says Carrie.

The frequency of handwashing will vary says Carrie; depending on the job and activity that people do but it is important to wash hands regularly between your day to day activities, including:  

• preparing food
• coughing
• sneezing
• blowing your nose
• caring for a wound
• changing a nappy
• using the bathroom or restroom
• handling rubbish or taking out the waste
• petting or touching an animal
• touching pet food or pet treats
• cleaning up pet waste
• caring for someone who is ill

For more information about hand hygiene and World Hand Hygiene Day, visit their website.