Hand Hygiene Interventions for Patient Adherence

This trial explores new methods to improve hand hygiene in mental health settings, where traditional soap and water may not always be available. Researchers are testing a non-alcohol-based hand sanitizer and a tailored hand hygiene bundle to determine which option helps workers clean their hands more effectively. The goal is to prevent the spread of germs like norovirus, which can easily spread in these environments. VA mental health care workers in inpatient units and infection control staff are invited to participate. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative solutions that could enhance health and safety in mental health care environments.

The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications.

Studies have shown that non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers are generally safe to use. These sanitizers are often used where alcohol-based ones aren't permitted. Safety information indicates they are safe for skin contact when used normally. However, if a skin reaction occurs, washing with water should help. If swallowed, contact a doctor or Poison Control immediately.

Researchers are excited about the hand hygiene interventions being tested because they offer innovative approaches to improving compliance among patients. The non-alcohol based hand sanitizer is unique because it avoids alcohol, which can be drying and irritating to the skin, making it more user-friendly for frequent use. Meanwhile, the tailored hand hygiene bundle is designed specifically for mental health care settings, incorporating best practices that are adapted to meet the unique needs of these environments. These interventions aim to enhance hand hygiene compliance, potentially reducing the spread of infections more effectively than the current standard practices.

This trial will compare two hand hygiene interventions. Research has shown that non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers, one of the interventions in this trial, can significantly increase hand cleaning frequency. One study found that the number of people regularly using hand sanitizer rose from about 49% to nearly 87% when these sanitizers were available. This is promising for settings where alcohol-based products are unsuitable.