MEDICAL REASONS for HOT WATER HAND WASHING -

The only way to rid hands of Healthcare Acquired Infections(HCAIs)

DID YOU KNOW that HANDS are responsible for the vast majority of all types of cross infection.
1) 8% of patients acquire an infection during their stay in hospital.
2) Hand washing is the single most important measure for preventing the transmission of infection.
3) A single infection costs £3,000 to treat and results in a patient spending 3 times longer in hospital (Plowman et al 1999).
4) Healthcare workers fail to wash their hands due to the fact of facilities not being quickly accessible and with NO water instantly available at the the correct temperature!

Being completely portable, the award winning TEAL Hygienius is now saving lives in more than 100 hospitals and PCTs throughout the UK.

Soap and hot water washing
1) Hands that are visibly dirty must be washed first in hot water with liquid soap.
2) Hand decontamination by careful washing with soap and hot water, will remove transient micro-organisms.
3) Rinsing ensures that these organisms are properly disposed of.

Recently the British Medical Association issued recommendations in Healthcare Associated Infections - aguide for healthcare professionals which states that;-

Effective hand hygiene is the single most important intervention in infection control and hot water and liquid soap play a vital role.

For further information, visit the BMA web site.

 The Medical and Healthcare industries are coming to realise that Hand steralizers, antiseptic gels and alcohol rubs do not ensure Hygenically clean hands.  They may be useful adjunct but are only suitable for hands that are NOT dirty. In addition, their continual use will lead to the uncomfortable build up of emollients on the skin which will need to be washed off .
Note that certain so called 'Super Bugs' ie. Clostridium Difficle, Norrovirus that produce spores are NOT affected by Alcohol Rubs. 
Liquid SOAPS used with hot water are effective against ALL trasient micro-organisms.

This information has been condensed from the 'Hand Decontamination Guidelines' published by the Infection Control Nurses Association (ICNA). The Infection Prevention Society web site includes all information about the ICNA.

The 'Go Anywhere' Hygienius HG230 to gether with its unique TEALtainer is illustrated.

For information on the effectiveness of a ten second hot wash with soap in getting rid of bacteria see the University of North Carolina web site.

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