Nurses welcome news that infection rates are decreasing
Published: 12 June 2009
Welcoming the publication of the National Audit Office report, Reducing Healthcare Associated Infections in Hospitals in England, Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said:
"This report rightly recognises the hard work and dedication of those healthcare staff who are helping to tackle MRSA and C. difficile. The innovation and leadership of nurses has been key to driving down infection rates and improving the quality of care for all patients.
"However, despite an overall fall in infection rates, a minority of Trusts have seen infection rates rise, giving a clear warning that more needs to be done. If the Government is serious about reducing HCAIs, it must invest in the appropriate training, support and equipment.
"Healthcare staff also need to recognise that fighting infection is about much more than just hand washing. It's about keeping every part of the patient environment, and every piece of equipment, clean all of the time because infections like MRSA and C.diff still pose a very serious threat. Good leadership is needed to foster a culture where excellent infection control is second nature to all health workers.
"The Royal College of Nursing looks forward to continuing its work with the National Audit Office and Department of Health to make HCAIs a problem of the past."
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Notes for Editors
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Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.