Infection prevention and control (IP&C) practices are important in maintaining a safe environment for everyone by reducing the risk of the potential spread of disease. These practices are designed to reduce the risk of hospital-associated infections and to ensure a safe and healthy hospital environment for our patients, healthcare providers and visitors.
How You can Help
Hand Hygiene - Care Begins with Clean Hands
Hand washing is your best defence against infection. Good hand hygiene means washing your hands with soap and water or using a waterless, alcohol-based hand gel or foam product to clean your hands. We encourage everyone to wash their hands thoroughly at hand hygiene stations located throughout the hospital and at all entrances and exits.
Clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub unless your hands are visibly soiled, then soap and water is preferred. It is recommended that you perform hand hygiene at the following times:
• When you enter and leave the hospital
• When you enter and leave a patient room
• Before eating
• After using the washroom
• After coughing, sneezing, and blowing your nose
Respiratory infections like the flu spread easily. When you cough or sneeze it is important to use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose. If you are able, try using your forearm to block your cough. If you cough into your hands, you need to wash your hands immediately as your hands can transmit germs to surfaces or people you may be in contact with.
If you have a respiratory illness, you may be asked to wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs. Your healthcare provider may also be required to wear a protective mask, fabric mask with filter, gloves and gown.
Cover Your Cough
Caring for Patients Requiring Additional Precautions
Upon your admission or during your stay, you may have been identified by your doctor, nurse or the IP&C team as having a condition or illness that requires additional precautions.
If you require additional precautions, you may need to stay in your room, but you can continue to have visitors. You, your visitors, and your care providers will be required to follow specific instructions as identified by your doctor, nurse and the IP&C team. Special signs will be posted on the door frame outside your room with instructions for “All Persons Entering Your Room”.
If you have questions about your care while in Additional Precautions, ask your nurse and doctor. You can also ask for a member of the IP&C team to visit on your given address or location.
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