To mark the observance of the day, PGIMER launched a dedicated Hand Hygiene Week from 5th to 12th May, spearheaded by the Hospital Infection Control Committee—a multi-disciplinary body comprising doctors, nurses, hospital administrators and infection control experts. The campaign aims to increase awareness, promote best practices, and ultimately reduce the incidence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

Addressing as Chief Guest at the launch ceremony and highlighting the significance of the initiative, Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER , stated, “If we take care of the small things, the big things will be taken care of automatically. Hand hygiene may seem basic, but it is foundational to patient safety and quality healthcare.”

The event was graced by the presence of several senior dignitaries including Prof. Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research), Shri Pankaj Rai, IAS, Deputy Director (Administration), Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, PGIMER * , along with Heads of various departments, senior faculty members, who extended their support and appreciation for the initiative.

Prof. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent, PGIMER , lauded the collective efforts across departments, saying, “It is heartening to see hand hygiene being implemented not just as a policy, but as a culture across PGIMER. The efforts of every department, every ward, and every team member in upholding this standard are truly commendable.”

Prof. Manisha Biswal, from the Hospital Infection Control Committee, delivered a detailed presentation showcasing hand hygiene compliance across various ICUs, HDUs, and NICUs within the institute. She also demonstrated updated techniques in handwashing and the use of alcohol-based hand rubs, reinforcing the scientific principles behind each method.

The Highlight of the launch ceremony was the felicitation of Departments for their Hand Hygiene Excellence which included:
• Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Unit
• Haematology High Dependency Unit, (HHDU) *
• Neonatal Nursery (NNN)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
* Respiratory Intensive Care Unit (RICU)*

Further a range of awareness activities has been scheduled throughout the Hand Hygiene Week, including:
• Display of informative posters across hospital premises
• Live demonstrations of hand hygiene techniques by infection control teams
• CME workshops for healthcare professionals
• SMS reminders and video messages in OPDs and ICUs to reinforce hand hygiene
• Recognition of departments with the highest compliance