C.R. Nicolay

Academic Surgical Unit, 10th Floor QEQM Wing, St Mary's Hospital, Praed St, London W2 1NY, UK

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Abstract

This review of the literature discusses the scientific evidence behind using different hand hygiene agents on the surgical ward, and in theatre for preoperative disinfection. It considers the mechanism of action of the agents and their effectiveness against different pathogens, as well as possible future agents, and how they are tested. It addresses problems such as the poor compliance with hand hygiene guidelines by healthcare workers (especially doctors) and investigates what can be done to improve compliance. Finally, it demonstrates the reduction in hospital acquired infection (HAI) rate that can be achieved by improving hand hygiene compliance, and shows that the savings associated with this easily outweigh the cost.

Keywords: Hand hygiene; Handwashing; Infection; Alcohol; Handrub