Hospitals Failing To Meet Hygiene Standards

Nine out of 10 acute health trusts have failed to meet hygiene standards to reduce hospital infections, according to spot checks carried out by the NHS watchdog.

The Healthcare Commission tested 51 trusts unannounced, and discovered only five adhered to Government regulations. However, while most of the failures did not pose an immediate risk to patients, it found nearly all the trusts had more to do to control the spread of infections like MRSA and Clostridium difficile.

In the areas where breaches did cause serious risk of the spread of infection, managers were told to take urgent action. The government's hygiene code came into force as part of the Health Act 2005.

Three trusts were given improvement notices to tackle failures in decontamination processes - they were Bromley Hospitals NHS Trust, Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust, and Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Trust.

Commission chief executive Anna Walker said: "It is clear that the NHS is paying close attention to infection prevention and control.

"Trusts have made real progress with many getting good systems in place and demonstrating clear board leadership on this important issue.

"Where we have raised concerns, we have generally been encouraged by the positive and prompt response at those trusts. Importantly, we have found few breaches requiring immediate action to protect the safety of patients - and where we have we have taken swift action."

The Patients' Association said it was dismayed at the failures the Commission highlighted.

Director Katherine Murphy said: "The Patients' Association says 'enough is enough'.

"The Hygiene Code is a legal requirement - why are staff members who fail to work to the Hygiene Code not disciplined?"

(JM)