FAQs

Hand Hygiene Program

Why is Hand Hygiene important? 

The CDC and WHO state that hand hygiene is the simplest and most effective practice in preventing the spread of infection. UCLA Health is committed to taking care of the communities we serve. This is why we have partnered with Ecolab to implement a hand hygiene program that helps provide reminders on when to wash or sanitize to optimize patient and staff safety. 

What areas will this apply to? 

During the initial phase, the program will cover all inpatient rooms throughout UCLA Health system-wide (RRMC and SMH).

How do we identify which pieces of equipment are within the Ecolab network?

Monitored dispensers are identifiable by the Wi-Fi symbol on the cover of the unit.

Is this program monitoring all movements, or only handwashing? 

The badge does not track your location, movement, or activity throughout the facility. It only collects data related to dispenser use and bed zone entries in monitored patient care areas.

Why do we need this program since we already wash our hands? 

With this system, and the insight to data it provides, we can now recognize the great work you are doing in keeping our patients and each other safe. This data is also valuable in reporting and achieving higher safety grades.

Will this be disruptive to our work? 

This program fits into our normal workflows and hospital policies of hand hygiene during patient interactions. Employees will wear a badge above the waist that monitors their hand hygiene behaviors throughout monitored Patient Zones.

Is there training available? 

A web-based training is available on Cornerstone, which can be accessed directly via this link or by searching for “Ecolab Hand Hygiene Badge Training.” Additional onsite education and information will be provided in the coming weeks.