Your Safety Matters: Speak Up for Clean Hands!
On World Hand Hygiene Day, remember: “Action saves lives.”
As a patient (or family member), you have the right to safe, clean care—and that includes clean hands. It’s okay to speak up and ask your healthcare team.
Here’s how the 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene look from your perspective:
Before they touch you“Did you clean your hands before checking me?”
Before a procedure (injection, IV, wound care)“Can I make sure your hands are clean before we start?”
After exposure to body fluids (blood, wounds, dressings)“Will you clean your hands after that?”
After touching you“Could you sanitize after checking me?”
After touching your surroundings (bed, rails, equipment)“Please clean your hands after touching things around me.”
It’s okay to say:“Hi, I just want to make sure—have you cleaned your hands?”
You are part of the care team. Your voice helps keep you, other patients, and healthcare workers safe.
