The Wall Street Journal reported: “Infections picked up in hospitals, nursing homes and doctor’s offices affect more than 1 million patients and are linked to nearly 100,000 deaths a year.
Most patients wouldn’t dare to ask their doctor to wash his or her hands. But with growing concerns about antibiotic-resistant germs, it’s more critical than ever.
It’s a simple enough request, but for patients and families who feel vulnerable, scared or uncomfortable in a hospital room, the subject can be too intimidating to even bring up with a doctor or nurse: Have you washed your hands?
Hospitals are encouraging patients to be more assertive, amid growing concern about infections that are resistant to antibiotics.”
Click here to read the full WSJ article “Why Hospitals Want Patients to Ask Doctors, ‘Have You Washed Your Hands?” by Laura Landro.
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Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.