Check out this interesting article:
This article discusses the problems that arise in nursing homes related to the spread of illness. Caregivers can easily spread germs from patient to patient if proper handwashing protocols are not followed. We all know that handwashing is very important for caretakers to perform on a regular basis, but a study was done that shows some nursing homes lack this important step in the caretaking process. What causes this? Nursing homes don’t always give enough emphasis and training on handwashing.
At Changing Seasons Homecare we do in-services for our aides on the benefits of proper handwashing and train our aides how to wash hands properly. It seems like common sense, but when caregivers are busy or not trained well, they could easily overlook the simplest way to prevent the spread of disease. We know that the patients in the population we serve are more vulnerable to sickness and infections and that is why we take these precautions very seriously. We want to ensure that your loved one is treated with the best care possible and that starts with proper handwashing.
Our aides are trained to wet their hands with water and lather soap for at least 30 seconds. During this time, they are encouraged to clean under fingernails, between the fingers and under and around all jewelry. When they are done, they need to rinse off the soap and turn the faucet off with a paper towel. This prevents bacteria in the faucet from getting on clean hands. It is necessary to dry the hands thoroughly and discard the paper towel without touching the garbage can.
These guidelines should be followed whenever hands are soiled, before and after using gloves, before and after eating, after using the restroom, after touching one’s face or eyes, and periodically throughout the time, a caregiver is with a client. We encourage everyone coming in contact with clients to follow these precautions. Please help us keep your loved ones safe and healthy.