By Dr. Seema Marwaha, University Health Network
For many it is surprising to learn that engaging health care providers in proper hand-washing can be a difficult task at times. Hand-washing is such a fundamental thing we need to emphasize. However, it is difficult to illustrate the impact poor hand hygiene compliance has on patient care.
The Centre for Innovation in Complex Care (CICC) at the University Health Network decided to use the viral video format – a short, internet based video – that uses humour and wit to gain views from the general public, to try and embed the message of handwashing in a medium people might want to watch and share with their friends. We believe the strong visual, shareable format, and clear message make this an effective form of patient education. Without any spoken word or complicated messaging, the central point is much clearer and can be appreciated amongst many different ethnic and social groups.
The idea of bacteria being invisible is ridiculous, but when the black, white and green turns to colour, these small exchanges of bacteria likely occur in the hospital setting on a daily basis leading to the spread of hospital-acquired infections amongst inpatients. The CICC hopes that this
short video will serve as a teachable moment and engage people to change their attitudes and hopefully behaviour as well.