Infection control

We have a strong track record on infection control, with no recorded cases of MRSA bloodstream infection or Clostridium difficile to date. We also have very low rates of two infections that are more relevant to ophthalmology – adenovirus and endophthalmitis.

To maintain this strong performance, we encourage all clinical staff to practise good hand hygiene – please don’t hesitate to ask staff if they have cleaned their hands before treating you.  

Our clinical staff also adhere to Department of Health guidance on “bare below the elbow”, which ensures that good hand hygiene can be carried out.  In addition, all clinical staff attend regular infection control training to keep them up to date with the latest guidance for protecting patients and to remind them of how to prevent and control infection compliance in our weekly hand hygiene audits.

We recognise the importance of keeping the environment clean and our domestic staff are dedicated to providing and maintaining a high standard, which is monitored regularly by our clinical staff.  We are also regularly inspected by independent organisations such as the Care Quality Commission and through patient-led assessments of the care environment (PLACE). 

What can patients do to help?

• Always clean your hands by washing them with soap and water or by using the hand gel at the entrance to the hospital or clinical areas
• To protect yourself and other patients, please tell your nurse or doctor if you have had any recent infections
• If you have a chest or respiratory infection, please defer your appointment

What can visitors do to help?

• Do not visit if you or someone else at home is unwell with, for example, a cold, flu, vomiting or diarrhoea
• Do not sit or lie on the patient’s bed
• Before entering clinical areas and after, clean your hands properly by using soap and water or by using the hand gel provided