Drug-resistant strains of bacteria are an increasing problem in hospitals, but a new study suggests that old standbys such as frequently washing hands with simple soap and water can sharply reduce infections of this type.
In the study, researchers in a Paris hospital found that in 1993 about 21% of patients admitted to their wound care center carried a specific drug-resistant bacteria and 9% of patients acquired the bacteria while at the hospital.
A program was then implemented in which nurses and other staff were trained to vigorously wash their hands, use gloves and gowns more frequently and use disposable devices more often.
They found that cases of hospital-acquired infections of the resistant bacteria dropped from 9% to 0.9% during a three year period, even though the number of patients with the bacteria who were admitted to the hospital remained stable at about 20%.
Archives of Dermatology, 2000; 136: 735-738; 785-786
Many of us, especially health care professionals, frequently forget the importance of hand washing in preventing infections. Of course, one can take this too far, especially in the winter. If one washes their hands too frequently, the fatty acids in the skin will be depleted, which leaves one susceptible to open wounds and sores which actually increase the risk of infection. This is especially true in the winter and in those individuals with eczema (atopic dermatitis).
Usually evening primrose oil is the best source of omega six fatty acids (GLA) to help this and should be balanced with a good fish oil (EPA/DHA) supplement. Also, note the fact that this tremendous reduction of infections was achieved with simple soap and water. There is absolutely no need to use anti-bacterial soaps and lotions, which may actually do more harm than good.
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