DRMC takes part in Infection Prevention Week

DOWNEY - To heighten awareness of the need to protect patients from healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), Downey Regional Medical Center is supporting International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW), which occurs globally Oct. 16-22.The hospital has a number of activities planned to help spread the word about the importance of infection prevention and the work of infection preventionists in Downey and around the world. "We are excited about this year's IIPW. We have a number of activities and events planned to help raise awareness of this very important issue in Downey," said Rob Fuller, chief operating officer at Downey Regional. "International Infection Prevention Week is a good time to celebrate the terrific work that is being done to reduce HAIs in our community and to collaborate for greater success in the coming year." Local IIPW activities that are planned include: the administration of influenza vaccinations to all members of DRMC's healthcare team, pledges for faithful use of hand hygiene in caring for patients and a "commitment to educate patients and the public to the importance of hand hygiene, use of respiratory etiquette and the appropriate use of antibiotics." "Through our efforts this week and beyond, we will provide education supporting the use of evidence-based practices to reduce the risk for infection and the development of drug resistant organisms that, if left unaddressed, will continue to threaten us all," said Fuller. "We embrace the concept of prevention and promote a culture within the hospital and outpatient care clinics where infection prevention is a part of everyone's job." IIPW was established in 1986 by President Ronald Reagan, who proclaimed the third week of October as National Infection Control Week and called upon all "federal, state and local government agencies, health organizations, communications, media and people" to take part in educational activities and programs.

********** Published: October 13, 2011 - Volume 10 - Issue 26