JHCMoments
"Milking the COW" with Hand Hygiene Device
Introducing the Computer on Wheels (COW) Hand Hygiene Device, an innovation designed to enhance infection control practices and ensure patient safety. This device is seamlessly integrated into the COW, mandating staff to utilise the attached hand sanitiser prior to accessing the computer system. By implementing this crucial step, the COW Hand Hygiene Device is strategically engineered to decrease microbial contamination on computer peripherals while simultaneously fostering a heightened culture of hand hygiene compliance among healthcare professionals.
The functionality of the COW Hand Hygiene Device is both straightforward and effective. The Hand Hygiene Dispenser is equipped with software that enforces proper hand hygiene protocols. When a staff attempts to log in, the system checks for sanitiser usage. Only after confirming proper hand hygiene does the computer unlock. Additionally, the screensaver displays periodic messages to remind users to perform hand hygiene, ensuring continuous awareness and compliance.
The initiative was led by Adjunct Assistant Professor Surinder Pada, Nurse Clinician Lilibeth S. Alenton and the Infection Control team, in collaboration with the Innovation & Improvement department.
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In January 2024, the COW Hand Hygiene Device was implemented in subsidised ward B5 in Tower B. Plans are in progress to gradually expand the deployment of the 300 COWs to be equipped with the Hand Hygiene Device to the remaining wards in Tower B. This extensive rollout demonstrates NTFGH's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of infection control and patient safety.
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To see the COW Hand Hygiene Device in action, watch the demonstration video below that provides a step-by-step guide on how to use this innovative system. The video illustrates the seamless integration of hand hygiene into daily workflows, emphasising the ease of use and the importance of maintaining rigorous hygiene standards.
The COW Hand Hygiene Device represents a significant advancement in infection control at NTFGH, ensuring healthcare workers adhere to essential hygiene practices, and safeguarding the health and well-being of patients and staff.