Dr Tejas Gohel, Consultant Microbiology & Nodal Officer Infection Control, Lilavati Hospital and Research Center, says that he plans to introduce automated hand hygiene instrument across the hospital
Hygiene practices implemented in 2023 to combat HAI
We have been focusing on cleaning of all the surfaces and critical instruments three times a day along with cleaning of highly touched surfaces like doorknob, telephone receivers and nursing stations. To ensure proper surface cleaning, weekly surface swabs are collected from critical equipment.
To take care of air quality in critical areas, regular validation and maintenance of HEPA filter is done as a protocol and to prevent fungal and bacterial infections, AC duct cleaning carried out once a year
How has the role of training evolved in 2023 to enable better HIC?
Training and motivation are keys to prevent HAI. We conduct training not just in the form of lectures that do not hold the attention of the staff, but we also do “Training with Fun” by involving the staff which keeps staff busy in the topic.
Along with staff training, patients and visitors training is equally important as they could carry infection inside the hospital. Hand hygiene training with all steps is well explained to them.
Successful models adopted in 22-23 and 23-24 to curb HAI
Newer technology and automation for cleaning & disinfection have played a big role, as these demand less manpower. More accurate work could be done in lesser time. High pressure cleaners proved to be more beneficial than manual mop cleaning in all ways. For hand hygiene too, it is very difficult to monitor the compliance by all the staff across the hospital. However, automatic instrument which dispenses hand rub can evaluate if all steps are followed properly or not and can help in monitoring.
In 2024, we will emphasise on Hand Hygiene, and only Hand Hygiene. More than 70% of hospital acquired infections can be prevented by Hand Hygiene.