International infection Prevention Month

International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) reminds us that while our industry was turned upside down and continues to be challenged by COVID-19, basic practices to prevent procedure- and surgical site-related infections remain critical to protecting patients and maintaining the reputation of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) as providers of safe, high-quality care.

If you work in a healthcare facility or anywhere where people might be at risk of catching an infection, you will want to read this. International Infection Prevention Week happens every year the third full week of October. It’s a time set aside for healthcare professionals and the public to get involved in an international effort to promote infection prevention and control.

You know you should be cleaning your hands, but do you really practice it? It’s been said that we touch our faces 50–100 times a day. When you get dressed, scratch your head or rub your eyes, then go to pet or tap on the keyboard at work. These are all opportunities for germs to spread. Here are some tips to keep those pesky germs away.

Infection prevention is an often-overlooked aspect of the nursing profession. However, it is a vital part of patient care that helps to keep patients healthy, happy, and out of danger. By using the tips from this article, you can have a meaningful impact on your patients’ health by preventing infections in their environment, the hospital or clinic itself, and even in their communities.

Educate yourself on how to protect yourself against colds and the flu, and help minimize the spread of infections in your workplace, your home, and any public spaces that you frequent. International Infection Prevention Week also provides a good opportunity to reinforce safety protocols and pest control measures at work, school, or any other place of business. Protect yourself year-round, not just during this week.