Hand Hygiene Importance

1. Prevents the Spread of Infections

• Germs are most commonly spread through hands.
• Proper hand hygiene reduces transmission of:
• Respiratory infections (e.g., influenza, COVID-19)
• Gastrointestinal illnesses (e.g., norovirus)
• Antibiotic-resistant organisms (e.g., MRSA)

2. Protects Vulnerable Residents

• Many LTC residents:
• Have weakened immune systems
• Require assistance with daily care
• Clean hands protect residents during close-contact care like feeding, bathing, and dressing.

3. Protects Staff and Visitors

• Healthcare workers can both acquire and spread infections.
• Regular hand hygiene protects:
• Staff health
• Families and visitors
• The broader community

4. Reduces Outbreaks

• LTC homes are high-risk environments for outbreaks.
• Good hand hygiene practices:
• Reduce outbreak frequency
• Minimize severity and spread when outbreaks occur

5. Improves Overall Quality of Care

• Fewer infections mean:
• Better resident outcomes
• Less hospitalization
• Lower healthcare costs
• Demonstrates professionalism and commitment to safety

🖐️ When to Perform Hand Hygiene (Key Moments)

LTC staff should clean their hands:

1. Before resident contact
2. Before performing clean/aseptic tasks
3. After exposure to body fluids
4. After resident contact
5. After contact with resident surroundings

🧴 Methods of Hand Hygiene

1. Alcohol-Based Hand Rub (ABHR)

• Preferred method when hands are not visibly dirty
• Fast and effective

2. Handwashing with Soap and Water

• Required when:
• Hands are visibly soiled
• After toileting
• During outbreaks like Respiratory and Gastroenteritis

⚠️ Consequences of Poor Hand Hygiene

• Increased infections and outbreaks
• Higher hospitalization and mortality rates
• Increased antibiotic use and resistance
• Regulatory penalties for the facility

⭐ Key Takeaway

Hand hygiene is the simplest, most effective way to prevent infections and save lives in long-term care. Consistent and proper practice protects residents, staff, and the entire care environment.

If you have questions, please contact Stephanie Albert, IPAC Lead at stephanie.albert@muskoka.on.ca