Consumer Reports tracks hospital-infection records and says while some institutions have made good progress, serious problems remain. Which hospital you go to can make a difference. Consumer Reports' new hospital ratings show some hospitals do a much better job of preventing some types of infections than others. Cleanliness is key. But patients can also take steps to keep themselves safe.
- Ask everyone who enters the room to wash their hands with soap and water. Hand sanitizer may not be enough to destroy some dangerous bacteria.
- If you have any type of infection, ask if you can postpone surgery. A weakened immune system increases your risk of a new infection.
- IVs and catheters can also lead to infections, so ask daily if they are still needed.
- And try to have a friend or family member be your advocate, especially at night and on weekends.
Consumer Reports hospital ratings are available for free at CR.org/hospitalratings.