IMSS Morelos Staff Master Hand Hygiene
- MORELOS, Mexico – Teh Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Morelos is reinforcing hand hygiene practices among its personnel to curb the transmission of various diseases.Training initiatives where...
- Víctor Antonio Segura Sánchez, an epidemiologist at HGR/MF No.
- "These activities focused on educating staff about the importance of hand hygiene,the five key moments for performing it,and the correct technique," Dr.
IMSS Promotes Hand Hygiene to Combat Disease Spread in Morelos
MORELOS, Mexico – Teh Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) in Morelos is reinforcing hand hygiene practices among its personnel to curb the transmission of various diseases.Training initiatives where conducted across all shifts at Regional General Hospital (HGR) No. 1 on Monday, May 5, coinciding with World Hand Hygiene Day. The training was supported by the Teaching Coordination and residents from Epidemiology, Quality, and Family medicine departments.
Hand hygiene: A Simple Yet Effective measure
dr. Víctor Antonio Segura Sánchez, an epidemiologist at HGR/MF No. 1, emphasized that proper hand hygiene is a cost-effective and straightforward method for minimizing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. He noted it as a crucial component in combating antimicrobial resistance.
“These activities focused on educating staff about the importance of hand hygiene,the five key moments for performing it,and the correct technique,” Dr. Segura Sánchez stated.
The Importance of Proper Technique
Dr. Segura Sánchez explained that microorganisms are frequently spread via hands,making regular handwashing with soap and water essential. He detailed the proper hand hygiene methods, noting that an alcohol-based solution requires 20 to 30 seconds, while washing with soap and water should last 40 to 60 seconds. He also advised removing accessories like rings,bracelets,and watches before washing.
Five Key Moments for Hand Hygiene in Healthcare
The epidemiologist outlined five critical moments for hand hygiene across all levels of hospital care:
- before touching a patient.
- Before performing an aseptic task,even when gloves are used.
- After potential exposure to bodily fluids, nonetheless of glove use. Immediate hand hygiene is necessary after contact with saliva,urine,blood,or other liquids.
- After touching a patient, notably at the conclusion of care involving physical examinations or vital sign checks.
- After contact with the patient’s surroundings, including personal items, bedding, or furniture.
Reinforcing Hygiene Practices
Dr. Segura Sánchez reiterated the importance of intensifying hand hygiene practices both at home and in medical facilities, emphasizing that it is a primary defense against various infectious diseases.
As part of the World Hand Hygiene Day activities, HGR No. 1 personnel showcased related work at the hospital’s main entrance on Monday, May 5. Activities included a video contest on hand hygiene and other educational displays.