Washing Away 'Never Events'?

摘要

Medicare will no longer pay hospitals for additional care resulting from some hospital-acquired infections or medical errors, but there are many ways to head off these "never events" and enhance the quality of care a patient receives.rnIt can start by simply washing your hands the right way.rnThat's what many healthcare quality professionals said in a recent ASQ survey that addresses the Medicare policy change, which took effect Oct. 1.rn"Hand washing is still the most important thing that anyone can do to prevent hospital-acquired conditions," said James M. Levett, a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon who chairs ASQ's Healthcare Division.