Hand hygiene as a caring practice: a reflection on professional responsibility

ABSTRACT Hand hygiene represents a fundamental nursing care practice and is traditionally considered the most important and effective measure in the prevention and control of healthcare-related infections. However, studies indicate that adherence to the procedure is unsatisfactory throughout the world, and show low adherence rates. In a context in which patient safety stands out as a priority, this text submits refl ections about professional responsibility when not adhering to hand hygiene practices, and ethical aspects related to this conduct.

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Belela-Anacleto,Aline Santa Cruz, Peterlini,Maria Angélica Sorgini, Pedreira,Mavilde da Luz Gonçalves
Format: Digital revista
Language:English
Published: Associação Brasileira de Enfermagem 2017
Online Access:http://old.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-71672017000200442
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Summary:ABSTRACT Hand hygiene represents a fundamental nursing care practice and is traditionally considered the most important and effective measure in the prevention and control of healthcare-related infections. However, studies indicate that adherence to the procedure is unsatisfactory throughout the world, and show low adherence rates. In a context in which patient safety stands out as a priority, this text submits refl ections about professional responsibility when not adhering to hand hygiene practices, and ethical aspects related to this conduct.