From The Cayman Islands Public Health Department

The Health Services Authority joined the world in observing International Control Awareness Week.

Annually the third week of October is observed as International Prevention Week.

In this week, awareness is raised on the role infection prevention plays to improve patient safety.  Patient safety is an important priority for infection preventionist and healthcare professionals.

This year’s theme is, ‘Protecting Patients Everywhere’.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1:25 people are diagnosed with healthcare associated infections each year in the United States. Not only does this cause the healthcare system billions of dollars, but also results in deaths of 75, 000 patients each year.

Preventing infections is our number one goal. Whether it be in an outpatient clinic, emergency room, or long-term care facility, we all play a role in influencing the patients’ health.

As a patient, Speak up! Infection Prevention is Everybody’s business. You should not feel shy or reluctant to ask for more information. After all your health is your responsibility. Your healthcare team wants you to have a voice in your care. Speak up and make sure you are comfortable with the care you are getting in the healthcare facility.

For further information, please contact the Infection Control unit on 244-2850.

Alternatively, the following links below can be accessed for information on Patient Care and Infection Control

http://www.who.int/gpsc/5may/tips-for-patients.pdf

http://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/

http://professionals.site.apic.org/infection-prevention-basics/break-the-chain-of-infection/

http://professionals.site.apic.org/infection-prevention-basics/learn-about-hais/

http://professionals.site.apic.org/infection-prevention-basics/clean-your-hands-often/

http://professionals.site.apic.org/infection-prevention-basics/know-safe-injection-practices/

http://professionals.site.apic.org/infection-prevention-basics/speak-up-for-your-care/