The provision of alcohol-based products to improve compliance with hand hygiene (Scotland)

Health Technology Assessment Report 7: Hand hygiene is considered to be a primary measure in reducing the spread of healthcare associated infection (HAI). NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) has issued advice to NHS Scotland on the use of alcohol gel to improve hand hygiene in hospitals. Alcohol gel is a substance that can be used to clean hands without using water. This HTAR advises that alcohol gel should be provided in hospitals for all staff who may come into contact with patients, and for hospital visitors, particularly where handwashing facilities are limited. However, alcohol gel should complement, not replace, existing handwashing facilities.