Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 11, 2026

A Method to Test the Efficacy of Handwashing for the Removal of Emerging Infectious Pathogens
Published on: June 7, 2017
Using a Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety to Evaluate a Hospital-wide Daily Chlorhexidine Bathing
Teresa Caya1, Jackson Musuuza, Eric Yanke
1Department of Medicine (Dr Safdar), School of Medicine and Public Health (Ms Caya), University of Wisconsin-Madison; Institute of Clinical and Translational Research (Dr Musuuza), University of Wisconsin-Madison; and Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Center for Quality and Productivity Improvement (Dr Carayon), University of Wisconsin-Madison; Department of Medicine (Dr Yanke) and Division of Infectious Diseases (Dr Safdar), William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin; and Departments of Infection Control (Mss Schmitz and Anderson) and Infectious Disease (Dr Safdar), University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison.
Abstract:
We undertook a systems engineering approach to evaluate housewide implementation of daily chlorhexidine bathing. We performed direct observations of the bathing process and conducted provider and patient surveys. The main outcome was compliance with bathing using a checklist. Fifty-seven percent of baths had full compliance with the chlorhexidine bathing protocol. Additional time was the main barrier. Institutions undertaking daily chlorhexidine bathing should perform a rigorous assessment of implementation to optimize the benefits of this intervention.
Related Concept Videos
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Handwashing II: Pre-procedure and Initial Procedure Steps
The hand washing procedure itself includes the following steps. First, cover cuts, if any, on hands with a waterproof dressing. Cuts and abrasions can become contaminated with bacteria hindering the ability to clean the area thoroughly. In addition, repeated hand washing can worsen an injury. The nails must be short and clean, without nail...
Handwashing I: Introduction and Types of Equipment
Hand wash basins in clinical areas should have faucets that can be turned on and off without using the hands; that is, they should be non-touch or lever-operated....
Handwashing III: During the Procedure and Post-Procedure Steps
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
PPE Use in Healthcare Settings II: Doffing

