Improved handwashing techniques for operating theatre staff
Posted Thursday, March 20, 2025 11:04 AM
Staff who work in hospital operating theatres are improving their handwashing and scrubbing techniques, thanks to the purchase of three training kits.
The UV hand inspection cabinets at King’s Mill Hospital are used as a training aid to show where techniques need to be improved, which helps to improve patient safety by preventing the spread of infection and cross contamination.
A specially-formulated lotion that becomes visible under UV light, allows users to identify areas that may be missed during handwashing.
The machines have been funded by £900 funded through the Sherwood Forest Hospitals’ Dragon’s Den 2024, which allows teams to bid for up to £5,000 for an improvement idea that will enrich the patient and carer experience in their area of work.
Judy Butler, Clinical Educator, said: “The machines are supporting training within our main, day case and maternity theatres, not only for new staff members, but also as a refresher for all staff. This will help to reduce the risk of infection and improve patient safety.”
The Dragon’s Den project is funded by volunteers at King’s Mill Hospital with profits from the hospital’s Daffodil café and fundraising stall.
