Whittington reached Infection Control Milestone

The Whittington has passed another infection control milestone.  On Friday 31 July 2009 there had been no MRSA bacteraemia infection at the hospital for 100 days.

Government infection control targets are based on MRSA bacteraemia, which is when the infection is found in the blood stream, as opposed to being colonised on the skin.

Director of nursing and clinical development Deborah Wheeler said "We are delighted to record yet another infection control success.   All the staff have pulled together to achieve this great record and we look forward to seeing the efforts and our success continue".

Director of infection prevention and control Dr Julie Andrews: "Hospital acquired infections are a major concern for patients and the public. The staff at the Whittington and particularly the infection control team, should be proud of reaching this important milestone - I certainly am".

The Whittington has achieved its success through implementing a number of measures.  It has a bare below the elbows policy and mandatory handwashing training for all staff. High standards of cleaning are regularly monitored by Matrons and extra focus has been placed on the care of drips and catheters.