Seguridad del Paciente - Patient Safety

May 5, 2010: World Hand Hygiene Day

On May 5, 2010, World Hand Hygiene Day, called by the World Health Organization (WHO) was held within the framework of its Patient Safety Program. This day is observed with the aim of getting the greatest possible number of healthcare centers and organizations throughout all countries actively involved in promoting hand hygiene, a simple measure yet of prime importance for reducing the number of healthcare-associated infections.

There are now 374 Spanish healthcare centers having joined in this initiative. Sign-ups for the campaign are encouraged at the following link:

http://www.who.int/gpsc/5may/register/es/index.html

On the occasion of this conference, the Autonomous Communities and the healthcare centers of the National Health System have prepared activities for heightening the awareness of professionals and citizens concerning the importance of hand hygiene for preventing healthcare-associated infections.

Links of interest:

• Activities within the National Health System
• WHO. SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands
• National Health System Hand Hygiene Program

Documents of interest:

• Activities suggested by the WHO for May 5, 2010
• Letter to be disseminated among healthcare professionals
• Health Authorities stress the importance of good hand hygiene at healthcare centers for heightening patient safety (Press Office, Ministry of Health and Social Policy – May 4, 2010)