Patients in ITU/HDU are at risk of developing more frequent and more serious infections than others due to their underlying condition. Unfortunately some medications and the use of lines and catheters can also increase this risk. These include infections carried on the skin such as MRSA and diarrhoeal illness. Infection Control is a huge issue in ITU and we do our best to keep the risk to a minimum. Visitors can help by following a few simple steps.
· Please wash your hands with the soap and water or the alcohol gel
o Before entering the ward
o After leaving the ward
o Guide to Handwashing
· Please use the chairs provided and avoid sitting on the bed.
· Please do not handle any lines or tubing
· If you are unwell or have had an episode of diarrhoea or vomiting, please refrain from visiting.
· Fresh flowers and plants are not permitted on ITU and to keep personal belongings to a minimum.
· Please do not eat or drink on ITU.
· We encourage you to ask our staff if they have washed their hands, or used the hygienic hand rub.
· If you are concerned that any area is not clean, please report it to the nurse in charge.
Department of Health Simple Guide to MRSA
