An article in the The Wall Street Journal says that hand washing protocols are only followed about 50% of the time amongst hospital staff. Protocols include washing with soap and water for a specific amount of time or using hand sanitizers.
Proper hand washing practices are the number one way to avoid infections, so hospitals are encouraging patients to ask their doctors to wash their hands. For those who are intimidated, some hospitals are using posters, bedside placards and buttons that say, “Ask me if I’ve washed my hands.”
Still afraid to ask? According to the CDC, infections picked up in hospitals, nursing homes and doctors’ offices affect more than 1 million patients and are linked to nearly 100,000 deaths a year.
Do you think you will ask your doctor next time you are in the office?
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