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Preventing Infections

Hospital Acquired Infections

Madera Community Hospital upholds strict hygienic measures to protect our patients and visitors from infection. The cooperation of our guests is an essential part of infection safeguarding. The following are a few ways you can help reduce the risk of infection in the hospital:

  • Wash your hands with soap or an alcohol-based hand rub frequently, including each time you enter and leave a patient’s room.
  • Do not touch patients without clean hands. If you shake hands with someone while in the hospital, be sure to wash your hands soon after.
  • Never touch wounds or any equipment connected to patients.
  • Ask medical professionals if they have washed their hands before treating any patients. It’s perfectly OK to ask, we understand your concern and want to put your mind at ease!

If you are sick please call instead of visiting a patient at the hospital. Your illness could increase their risk of infection while in the hospital. Patients on the Medical Surgical floor and Maternity, have phone access. You may also send patients an E-Card.

Surgery & Infections

Patients are most susceptible to infections during and immediately after surgery. There are several ways you can protect yourself from infection while preparing for surgery:

  • Ask your doctor to thoroughly go over what you need to do before surgery. Certain medications and foods can increase your risk of complications, including infections, if consumed 24 hours before your operation.
  • Diabetes and high blood sugar can increase the risk of infections. Speak with your doctor about how to manage your diabetes before an operation for optimal results.
  • Obesity can increase the risk of infection after surgery. A healthy, moderate weight loss plan before an operation can reduce the risk of complications, ask a healthcare professional for their recommendation.
  • Smokers have a higher risk of lung infections following surgery. Participating in a smoking cessation program can help prepare you for surgery and speed up the recovery process, even if you only stop temporarily.

Our dedicated infection control nurse can assist you if you would like to learn more about preventing hospital infections, contact (559) 675-2701.