Hand hygiene in hospitals is not just for staff – now NHS Lanarkshire is looking for volunteers to drive this message home.
A dynamic new pilot project is being launched at Monklands Hospital where volunteers will show visitors why good hand hygiene is vital.
Katrina Murray, NHS Lanarkshire’s voluntary services manager, said: “Washing your hands properly is vital to prevent the spread of germs and stop infection.
“But it’s not just hospital staff who need to demonstrate good hygiene habits - preventing healthcare associated infection is everyone’s responsibility.
“The volunteers will help emphasise to hospital visitors that it’s not just the staff who have responsibility for stopping the spread of germs in hospitals.”
Katrina continued: “The volunteers will work with the public to provide them with the information and advice they need to improve hand hygiene by cleaning their hands correctly and at the right times.
“It is an exciting opportunity for people to actively contribute to the huge amount of work already underway, and help make a difference.”
NHS Lanarkshire is looking for volunteers over the age of 16 to help promote the good hand hygiene message during afternoon and evening visiting times at Monklands.
They will assist staff in promoting the importance of correct hand hygiene by:
- Distributing hand washing leaflets to the public
- Encouraging use of hand gels
- Demonstrating correct hand hygiene techniques
- Use the light box to show how well hands have been washed.
Although no prior experience is required volunteers should:
- Be able to work as part of a team
- Be able to communicate with people
- Be approachable and have a friendly nature
- Be confident in speaking to people you have never met before
- Be able to respect confidentiality
- Be patient
- Be willing to participate in hand hygiene training.
Volunteers are entitled to claim out of pocket travel expenses.
For more information on the project contact Katrina Murray, voluntary services manager, on 01236 707796.