Clean Hands Save Lives

Hands easily collect and spread germs that make us sick, and are the main causes of cross-contamination.

Why do I need to perform hand hygiene?
Performing hand hygiene frequently can prevent you and your loved ones from being infected.

When should I perform hand hygiene?

• Before and after any physical contact with patients
• Before you leave the patient care area
• Before and after eating
• After visiting the toilets
  
  

What do I use for hand hygiene?
Soap and water, or alcohol antiseptics.

How to perform proper hand hygiene?
Cover all surfaces of your hands, including:

• Front and back of palm
• Wrists
  
• Fingers, thumbs and fingertips
  
  

Rinse the soap with water, and dry with paper towel. When using alcohol antiseptics, rub until dry and do not rinse.

How to prevent the spread of germs when you are unwell:

• Put on a surgical mask especially if you are coughing or sneezing. You may ask for a mask from the nurses.
• Cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper when you cough or sneeze.
• If you do not have tissue paper, cough and sneeze into your elbow.
• Throw used tissue paper into the bin.
• Perform proper hand hygiene immediately, especially if you had coughed or sneezed into your hands.
  
  

Please do not visit the wards if you have, or have been in close contact with persons having:

• Fever
• Cough / Flu
• Diarrhoea
  
• Skin rashes
• Chickenpox
• Mumps
• Measles or other contagious illnesses
  
  

Protect yourself and your loved ones

• Clean your own hands and ask those around you to do the same.
• It is okay to speak up: you can politely ask your healthcare provider to clean their hands before they examine you or your loved ones.