Good hand cleaning can save lives, and that simple message took centre stage at St. Columba’s Hospital in Thomastown this month. In a practical public health update from the Health Service Executive (HSE), staff, patients, residents and visitors were reminded that hand hygiene remains one of the most effective tools for preventing infection in healthcare settings.
The event marked the World Health Organisation’s annual World Hand Hygiene Day and showcased how the Health Service Executive (HSE) continues to support infection prevention at local level. Hosted by the HSE Dublin and South East Infection Prevention and Control Nursing Team alongside the Antimicrobial Stewardship Team, the initiative focused on awareness, education and technique.
How the Health Service Executive (HSE) marked the day
At St. Columba’s Hospital residential care centre, the awareness campaign featured a promotional stand built around the HSE’s “Resist” programme. This initiative forms part of the wider Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control approach and is designed to encourage better hygiene habits across healthcare environments.
A key attraction on the day was an AI hand hygiene scanner, an interactive tool used to demonstrate whether hand cleaning techniques are being carried out correctly. By giving real-time feedback, the technology helps reinforce best practice in a clear and engaging way.
According to the Health Service Executive (HSE), good hand hygiene is:
- One of the least expensive infection-control measures
- A highly effective way to reduce healthcare-associated infections
- An important defence against antimicrobial resistance
- Relevant not just for staff, but also for patients, families and visitors
Why hand hygiene still matters in healthcare
The message behind the event was straightforward: clean hands at the right time can help stop dangerous infections from spreading. Healthcare-associated infections can arise in any care setting, and consistent hand hygiene remains a frontline safety measure.
Noreen Hynes, Director of Nursing at St. Columba’s Hospital, said proper hand cleaning when delivering care is the most effective way to prevent the spread of many infections. She also noted the hospital’s strong record in this area while stressing the need to keep improving standards.
That public health emphasis aligns with the wider work of Irish public bodies including gov.ie, the Revenue Commissioners and An Garda Síochána, all of which increasingly rely on clear public information campaigns to support safer communities. In the health space, agencies such as HIQA, the HPRA and the Food Safety Authority (FSAI) also play important roles in maintaining standards, oversight and public confidence.
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The event also carried a human note, as Infection Prevention and Control Nurse Specialist Maree Hosey took part in one of her final “Resist” promotional stands before retiring after many years of service with the Health Service Executive (HSE).
What this means for patients, families and visitors
The Health Service Executive (HSE) used the occasion to stress that infection prevention is not solely the responsibility of nurses, doctors and carers. Everyone entering a healthcare facility has a role to play.
- Use hand sanitiser or wash hands on arrival and departure
- Clean hands before and after visiting a patient or resident
- Follow local hygiene guidance from staff
- Stay alert to signage and infection-control instructions
This broader approach reflects a growing focus across public services, from Social Protection and Education to Housing, Local Government and Heritage, on accessible communication that changes everyday behaviour for the better.
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With infection risks still a serious concern across healthcare systems, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is using local engagement and practical tools to keep basic prevention methods front of mind. The takeaway is clear: hand hygiene may be simple, but it remains one of the strongest protections available in hospitals and care settings.
As this latest update shows, the Health Service Executive (HSE) continues to combine education, technology and frontline leadership to strengthen safer care. For patients, families and staff alike, better hand hygiene is not just good practice, it is a shared responsibility that can make a measurable difference.
