Why is hand hygiene emphasized in hospital settings?

Hand hygiene is emphasized in hospital settings primarily to prevent the spread of infection. This practice is crucial because healthcare environments often house patients with weakened immune systems who are more susceptible to infections. By frequently washing hands or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, healthcare workers can significantly reduce the transmission of harmful pathogens from one patient to another, or between surfaces and patients.

Infection control measures are essential in safeguarding the health of patients and maintaining overall public health, as infections acquired within healthcare facilities can lead to serious complications, prolonged hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest yet most effective strategies to prevent healthcare-associated infections, making it a cornerstone of infection control protocols in hospitals. This practice not only protects patients but also helps reduce the burden of infection in the healthcare system.