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World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW)- Prevention

November 17, 2023

WAAW aims to raise awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) – one of the leading risks to human health.

 Today’s theme is PREVENTION

 At SWB we are reminding our staff to adhere to robust infection control practices. Preventing the spread of organisms is fundamental to preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAI) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

The growing number of healthcare-associated infections caused by drug resistant organisms (such as carbapenem-resistant bacteria (CPE/CRO), multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii or Pseudomonas aeruginosa) pose a significant threat to public health.

Hand washing is the simplest and most effective way of preventing healthcare-associated infections. It protects our patients, reduces antibiotic use, and slows the spread of antimicrobial resistant bacteria.

Vital hygiene measures to be aware of:

  • Hand hygiene: The 5 WHO moments
  • Correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Environmental cleaning
  • Compliance with Aseptic Non-Touch Techniques
  • Correct management of indwelling devices

All colleagues at SWB have a responsibility to ensure they are compliant with and adhere to infection prevention and control policies, procedures and guidelines. Robust infection prevention and hand hygiene practices protect our patients.