Did you know you’re part of the hospital health care team? Infections can occur after hospital procedures. Here’s how you can help stop infections from starting:

• Wash your hands often, particularly after using the bathroom. Wash with soap and water for at least 15 seconds. Click here for hand washing images.
• Don’t hesitate to remind doctors, nurses and other staff to wash their hands.
• All staff should be wearing gloves when they provide treatment.
• If you have a wound dressing, tell your nurse if it is loose or wet.
• If you have a urinary catheter, tell your nurse if it is loose or comes out.
• If you have diabetes, be sure your physician and nursing staff are following your control plan.
• If you have an intravenous catheter, help keep the dressing clean and dry. Tell your nurse, if it is wet, red, painful or loose.
• Ask questions. Know what your treatment plan is.
• Tell your nurse if you are in pain or have a concern.

Credit: Johns Hopkins Hospital Infection Control