Minimizing Germs and Infections

Hand Hygiene

Having clean hands is crucial to preventing the spread germs and infection whether at home or in the hospital.

When you cough or sneeze

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue OR use your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• You may be asked to wear a surgical mask to protect others.

After you cough or sneeze

• Put your used tissue in a waste basket.
• Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds OR use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

While in the hospital

• Ask all health care workers who have contact with you if they have cleaned/washed their hands.
• Ask your family and friends to clean/wash their hands upon entering your room.

What we can do

•  Ask all health care workers who have contact with you if they have cleaned/washed their hands.
• Ask your family and friends to clean/wash their hands upon entering your room.

Respiratory Hygiene

What you can do

Use your sleeve or a tissue when you cough or sneeze rather than your hands.

While in the hospital

• Inform caregivers if you are coughing up bloody mucous.
• Wear a protective mask if asked to do so.
• Depending on your illness, staff and visitors may need to wear a mask as well.

Contact Precautions

While in the Hospital

• Your caregiver will go over specific requirements with you if needed.
• Depending on your illness, others may need to protect themselves by not touching surfaces or items you may have had contact with. And they may be required to wear a protective gown and gloves around you.