Patient Guide
Key Information for Your Stay
5 Ways to Fight Infections
5 Ways to Fight Infections
The hospital is a place you come to get well, but you can also come in contact with germs that can make you feel worse. Reduce your chances of infection by taking these safety precautions.
1. Clean your hands.
- after touching hospital objects or surfaces
- before eating
- after using the restroom
2. Ask hospital staff members to clean their hands.
This should be standard practice, but don’t be afraid to remind them if they forget or to ask them to wear gloves when touching you. Ask visitors to clean their hands too!
3. Cover if you are sick.
Limit the spread of germs by sneezing and coughing into tissues you promptly throw away, avoiding touching other people and immediately washing your hands. Ask the staff if there is anything else you should do—like wear a surgical mask—to prevent the spread of germs.
4. Keep an eye on bandages or dressings.
If a dressing on a wound or IV becomes loose or wet, let your nurse know. Also if you have a catheter or drainage tube, tell your nurse if it becomes loose or dislodged.
5. Keep your vaccinations up-to-date.
Make sure you are as protected as possible from the spread of infection. Check with hospital staff about whether it’s safe for you to receive any vaccines you might need.
Cleaning Tip
When you wash your hands, use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer under your nails, between your fingers, and on the palms and backs of your hands. Rub for 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
About Antibiotics
While you’re in the hospital, your doctor will review and make changes to your medicines—including antibiotics. This helps to make sure you’re taking antibiotics in the safest and most effective way. Talk to your doctor or nurse to learn more.