Infection Control for Patients on Isolation Precautions and their Families and Visitors

Spread of infection

Infections can be spread through the air and by contact with hands, personal items, or health care equipment. Prevention of infections is an important part of health care and it is an obligation of everyone involved in the delivery of health care, including patients, their families and visitors.

Isolation Precautions

Isolation Precautions will be taken because of a known or suspected infection. It is very important toprotect all of our patients from infection. We need to use Isolation Precautions to stop the spread ofinfections. These Precautions may include:

• Protective items worn by Caregivers, families and visitors, such as gloves, gown/apron, or masks
• Equipment that stays in the patient's room
• Limited movement in and out of the room
• Cleaning of hands by all patients, Caregivers, families and visitors

Clean your hands

The most important step in stopping the spread of infection is cleaning your hands. You can clean your hands with soap and water or a hand sanitizer. You should also make sure that caregivers are cleaning their hands.

For visitors

When you come to visit your loved one, follow the below listed Precautions:

• Before entering the room, check with a nurse who will provide you with protective clothing that you will wear to enter the room. This may include wearing of gloves, a gown and/or a face mask.
• Read the sign posted outside the room. The sign lists the precautions that need to be taken
• Clean your hands right before you enter, and before you leave the room
• There is a limit to the number of visitors
• Children are not allowed to visit patients in the Isolation room
• Take as few items as possible into the room

If you have questions

If you have any questions about special precautions, please ask your doctor or nurse. You may also contact the hospital's Infection Control Department. Tell your nurse that you want to do so and they will assist you.