Learn about who's working to keep you safe
Infection preventionists are among the many experts who help protect you from healthcare-associated infections. They work in many healthcare settings to
keep you, visitors, volunteers, employees, and healthcare providers safe from infection.
What is Healthcare-Associated Infection?
Healthcare-associated infections can occur while a patient recieves care or treatment. These kinds of infections are often preventable.
How Does an Infection Preventionist Affect the Care I Receive?
Infection preventionists partner with your healthcare team to use proven methods to ensure that you stay safe from healthcare-associated infections during your stay.
Although you may not see the infection preventionists during your visit, you will notice the presence of infection prevention everywhere throughout the facility:
- Hand sanitizer gels or rubs
- Hand washing stations
- Disinfecting wipes
- "Cover Your Cough" signs
- Healthcare providers wearing gloves, masks and
gowns - Environmental Services cleaning staff
What Do I Need To Do To Stay Safe?
Please speak up! Do not feel shy about asking for more information about your care. Infection prevention is everyone's business! If you have a concern, feel free to ask the following questions:
- Before receiving an injection, ask if the needle, vial, and syringe have been newly opened for you.
- If you have not seen healthcare staff who care for you either wash their hands or use an alchohol hand rub, ask them to do so.This also applies to visitors.
- If you have a catheter in your bladder or vein, tell your nurse if it becomes loose or painful. Also ask each day when it can be removed.
- If you are having surgery, ask your doctor if you should shower with an antispetic soap before you are admitted.
- Ask your providor if you need any shots or vaccines.
- If you think that the area around you or the equipment in your room looks dirty, ask to have it cleaned.
- If you have a bandage (also called a "dressing"), let your nurse know if it gets wet, loose, or feels uncomfortable.