Time to Revitalize Infection Prevention Awareness in Healthcare

Those who work in a healthcare setting are well aware of Infection Prevention (IP) strategies. Protecting patients and employees should be at the forefront of all IP Programs in order for them to be successful and minimize risk of harm. Although we are all elated to be now several years post-pandemic, those challenging times have more than taken the wind out of the sails of healthcare professional and IP leaders.

October 13-19, 2024, is International Infection Prevention Week. Although it is just around the corner, there is no better time to celebrate all healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to improving the lives of others. It is also the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our Infection Prevention Leaders. This dynamic group of professionals are committed to keeping organizations safe and compliant. A little effort goes a long way. Planning even small activities and awareness initiatives are a great way for organizations to celebrate team members for their contribution to daily IP practices.

We understand that organizations may be struggling with operational budgets and rising costs but there are some activities that can be planned and are free.

• Infection Prevention & You has a variety of puzzles that can be downloaded and emailed out as a fun awareness activity. 
  
• There are also coloring sheets that can be sent out for team members to engage in a lighthearted IP activity. Coloring is a healthy way to reduce stress.
  
• Use an empty patient room to encourage staff to discuss hand hygiene practices and cleaning protocols for surfaces and equipment. This is also a perfect opportunity to include your Environmental Services Team and acknowledge them for all their hard work in keeping everyone safe.

If your budget allows for a little more, here are some great activities that require minimal cost:

• Glogerm is a fun way to demonstrate efficacy of hand washing and cleaning. Kits can be purchased at a low cost. 
• What’s Wrong with This Picture is another great activity. Pictures taken from surveillance rounding can be displayed for employees to try to determine what the IP breach is. Depending on the image, this event can be both challenging and a great opportunity for education.
• Using a few PPE supplies, have team members identify what supplies should be used for various types of isolation. It is also a great opportunity to discuss proper donning and doffing techniques.
• When doing routine surveillance, handing out small awards to those who engage in good hand hygiene practices goes a long way. 
• Providing small snacks or treats around any activity is an enticing way to encourage team engagement, so break out the Halloween candy!
  

IP Week is also a great time for administrators to recognize IP Leaders for their commitment to keeping everyone safe and organizations compliant with IP standards and reporting requirements. A personal thank you note, or card is a nice touch to acknowledge your IP. If your IP is working toward a certification or interested in continuing education opportunities, supporting their professional IP goals is a win-win for all. 

From all of us here at HCE Global, we wish everyone a happy and healthy Infection Prevention Week! Keep up the great work!!

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