Proper hand hygiene will prevent deaths due to healthcare associated infections

Sep 11 2009

Ecolab Inc. announced today it is partnering with the Joint Commission’s new Center for Transforming Healthcare to support a study to improve hand hygiene. The goal of the study, which will be conducted at eight leading hospitals and health systems, is to eliminate hand hygiene as a cause of healthcare associated infections (HAIs).

According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 100,000 deaths occur each year in U.S. hospitals due to HAIs. Proper hand hygiene is the single most effective method for preventing these infections.

“Ecolab shares the Joint Commission’s vision and commitment to reduce HAIs and improve patient safety,” said Paul B. Chaffin, vice president, Ecolab Healthcare North America. “Poor hand hygiene and improperly cleaned patient rooms can elevate the risk of infection, so we have designed comprehensive infection prevention solutions, integrated with training and support, to optimize overall performance and drive continuous improvement.”

Chaffin added, “Through our products and programs, Ecolab can help deliver a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment for patients and healthcare providers.”

www.ecolab.com