HANDWASHING Presented By: Janet Blair Healthy Start in Child Care

HANDWASHING The Most Important Step in Infection Control

HANDWASHING 100 Years Ago “Quaint” Experiment

LOCAL DAY CARE FACILITY Use of food service gloves In and outside of building Approximately 50% reduction in Upper Respiratory Infections

CHILD CARE CENTERS=AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE Over ½ of all mothers of young children hold jobs outside the home-day care centers are a necessity Studies show children < 3 yrs cared for in day care centers are more subject to diarrhea attacks than other youngsters Center workers and families of children have more bouts of diarrhea

THE PROBLEM! Enteric (small intestine) infection show themselves as diarrhea and disturbances in the GI tract Human gut contains many bacteria and viruses that can cause diarrhea-body’s natural defenses usually keep them in control Ordinarily these organisms don’t get spread around Fecal contamination can be a prime source of diarrhea for children < 3

HANDWASHING SINGLE MOST PREVENTIVE MEASURE IN DAY-CARE CENTERS

PROPER HANDWASHING Water Soap 20 Seconds Rinse Disposable Towel

ASSISTING A CHILD Hold child or have child stand on safety step Assist child with washing-IDEA-tell child to sing Happy Birthday or Yankee Doodle as he/she washes hands Wash your own hands INFANTS HANDS SHOULD BE WASHED AFTER DIAPER CHANGES

WHEN? Arrival Preparing/Serving Food Diaper Changes Noses/Coughing/Sneezing Bathroom Outdoor Play Handling/Feeding Pets Caring For Sick Child Handling/Cleaning Up Bodily Secretions Giving Medication Any Cleaning Activity

CONSEQUENCES OF DISEASE SPREAD Parents know how disagreeable even a short bout of diarrhea can be Public health workers know that diseases spread from child care centers can have further more serious consequences: Ex. Hepatitis A

THE FUTURE... FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD

HANDWASHING Healthy Start in Child Care Janet Blair Child Care Health Consultant Perry County Health Department