Multimodal strategy for hand hygiene in field hospitals of COVID-19

Estrategia multimodal para higiene de las manos en hospitales de campaña para COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Objective:

Reflect and propose adaptations to the Multimodal Hand Hygiene Strategy for field hospitals, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method:

Reflective study, carried out in April 2020, based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization and the guide for the implementation of the five components of the Multimodal Strategy: system change related to infrastructure; training/education; evaluation and feedback; reminders in the workplace; and institutional security climate.

Results:

The Multimodal Strategy, proposed for hospitals in general, can be adapted for field hospitals in order to reduce the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Investments to adapt the infrastructure and education of workers require foresight and speed and are of special relevance to promote hand hygiene in this care context.

Final considerations:

Adjusting the Multimodal Strategy, especially for the reduced time in the execution of each component, is necessary for field hospitals with a view to preventing COVID-19.

Descriptors:
Hospitals; SARS Virus; Delivery of Health Care; Hand Hygiene; Patient Safety