6 Ways to Fight Infections
The hospital is a place you come to get well, but you can also come in contact with germs that can make you feel worse. Reduce your chances of infection by taking these safety precautions.
1. Speak up.
Talk to your doctor about all questions or worries you have. Ask what he or she is doing to protect you:
- If you have a catheter, ask each day if it is necessary.
- Ask your doctor how he or she prevents surgical site infections. Also ask how you can prepare for surgery to reduce your infection risk.
2. Keep hands clean.
Be sure everyone cleans his or her hands before touching you.
3. Get smart about antibiotics.
Ask if tests will be done to make sure the right antibiotic is prescribed.
4. Know the signs and symptoms of infection.
Some skin infections, such as MRSA, appear as redness, pain or drainage at an IV catheter site or surgery site. Often these symptoms come with a fever. Tell your doctor if you have these symptoms.
5. Watch out for deadly diarrhea.
Tell your doctor if you have three or more diarrhea episodes in 24 hours, especially if you have been taking an antibiotic.
6. Protect yourself.
Get vaccinated against flu and other infections to avoid complications.
Cleaning Tip
Use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer under your nails, between your fingers, and on the palms and backs of your hands. Rub for 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
Tell friends and family not to visit if they are sick. And make sure all your guests wash their hands when they enter your room.