ON May 23^rd, 2008, the French Ministry of Health launched a national hand cleanliness campaign targeting health care workers, patients, and the general public. The campaign emphasizes that proper hand hygiene is the key element in preventing and controlling nosocomial infections.

It is critical that a through cleansing of one’s hands with a liquid alcohol solution containing an emollient to protect the skin precedes all health care treatments, no matter where they are carried out. All health care establishments throughout the country should see to it that these solutions are available at patient’s bed. Health care workers would also be required to carry a small bottle of disinfectant in the pockets of their uniform.

Effective prevention requires that all jewelry such as rings, bracelets and necklaces be banned in hospitals and clinics. Healthcare worker’s fingernails must be kept short and devoid of fingernail polish. Fake fingernails and jewelry that pierces the skin are virtual bacteria traps and should also be banned. Hair is to be worn short or tied back so as not to come into contact with patients or medical instruments.

Health care workers in particular must be made aware of the importance of hand washing in infection prevention. Bacteria tests and controls have clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of proper hand cleanliness.

It is also important to note that 75% of NI’s can be prevented by hand washing and by limiting the use of antibiotics.