How Poole Hospital Prevents & Controls Infection
At Poole Hospital we are committed to reducing all infection. We do this in a number of ways:
Monitoring Infection
The Trust monitors, reports and thoroughly investigates all cases of Meticillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) blood stream infection and Clostridium difficile infection. On a daily basis the infection prevention and control team monitor hospital admissions and the results from the laboratory, and advise staff on the best way to care for patients. This helps to ensure that infections do not spread in the Hospital.
MRSA Screening
In April 2009 we began testing most patients for MRSA either before they come into hospital or on admission. This enables us to provide the correct care and reduce the risk of spreading the bacteria to others. If you are found to have the bacteria on your skin we will share this information with you, if you have gone home we will write to tell you and your GP, although usually no treatment is required.
The Infection Control Team
The Trust has a team of specially trained doctors and nurses who provide support and guidance to hospital staff on a daily basis. Working alongside the hospital matrons they take the lead in preventing infection and monitoring standards of care.
Hospital Cleaning
We place great importance on providing a clean hospital and monitor the standards on a daily basis. Each ward has a dedicated cleaner and we work in partnership with our commercial partners, ISS Mediclean, who have worked with us for many years.
Hand Washing
Cleaning our hands is one of the most important things that we can all do to prevent infection. For more information on hand washing, click here