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Protect Yourself from
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

 

Another week, another blog filled with squeaky clean tips! While I’m all about good clean fun (pun intended!), today I want to tackle a more serious issue that is hot topic worldwide: antibiotic resistance.

Last week the World Health Organization released a report stating antimicrobial resistance, including antibiotic resistance, is a serious global threat that has the potential to affect anyone, of any age, in any country.

Sounds scary right?

In layman’s terms, bacteria have changed so that antibiotics no longer work in people who need them to treat infections. Antibiotic resistance means common infections that have been treatable for decades can kill once again.

How Do I Prevent Antibiotic Resistance?

Before you get worked up, know that there are steps you can take to protect yourself. The most important action we can take against antibiotic resistance is prevention. If we can prevent infections from happening in the first place through better hygiene and infection control in healthcare facilities, we can stay ahead of resistant germs.

Think about the number of times we touch objects and surfaces everyday: your desk, your computer, toilet handles, a railing or a coworker’s hand — the list goes on and on. That’s a lot of germs! If you work in the healthcare industry, the list is even longer. According to WHO, prevention through better hand hygiene can help us battle antibiotic-resistant bugs and reduce our chances of getting sick, no matter where we work and live.

How Can I Improve Hand Hygiene in the Healthcare Industry?

This is a question I get asked quite often: When should healthcare workers be washing their hands? According to WHO, there are key moments when healthcare workers should pause and give their hands a good scrub:

  • Before touching a patient

  • Before cleaning/aseptic procedures

  • After any body fluid exposure/risk

  • After touching a patient and any patient surroundings

Proper handwashing technique is also key to success. When washing with soap and water, the entire process should last between 40-60 seconds when done properly. When washing with an alcohol-based formulation from a portable hand sanitizer dispenser, the procedure should take between 20-30 seconds.

What Kind of Disinfectant Should I Use to Prevent Infection?

Disinfectant is the cornerstone of any infection control program and my product of choice is AHP Hydrogen Peroxide. Oxivir® Disinfectant Cleaners provide an alternative to traditional disinfectants by delivering fast-acting, broad-spectrum disinfection with enhanced cleaning power that is staff and patient friendly. It’s also safe for most surfaces. The active ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, breaks down into environmentally friendly water and oxygen just minutes after use. It’s one of my favourite products that I often recommend to customers — good for your health and good for the environment!

Now that you know a little more about antimicrobial resistance, you can take the proper steps to protect yourself at home and at work. Stop bugs in their tracks!

I’m proud to be a one of the premier distributors for janitorial supplies Simcoe County. What are you waiting for? Let’s connect! Visit me on Facebook and Twitter.

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