It has long been thought proficient hand-washing in hospitals was the most important aspect to controlling the spread of infection. It is also common practice for doctors and nurses in a hurry to use alcohol-based hand gels rather than conventional soap and water. Dr. Mark Rupp at the University of Nebraska Medical Center put these practices to the test.

Rupp observed hygiene practices in two intensive care units over two years to compile his data. According to The New York Times,

More gel dispensers were put in the units, and usage rose from 37 percent to 68 percent in one unit and from 38 percent to 69 percent in the other. Compliance for hand washing of any kind in most hospitals is estimated to be about 40 percent, according to experts, although some hospitals do better.

Bacteria samples taken every two months showed that health workers’ hands were cleaner when using the hand gel. However, the rates of infections in the ICUs did not show any clear relationship with the rate of hand gel usage. One unit also showed an increase in infections.

Rupp stated that better hand washing does not play a large enough role to cut down on infection. He said, “Hand hygiene is still important, but it’s not a panacea.” Rupp suggest other ways to help cut down on infection, including a better cleaning of hospital units, proper insertion and maintenance of catheters, and having doctors only prescribe antibiotics when necessary. He also called for hospital workers to cease wearing rings and to trim fingernails shorter than CDC recommendations (quarter of an inch).

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