Trial of hi-tech gadget warning hospital staff to clean their hands

The gadget can detect hand movements and even sense hand gel to warn staff if their hands need a wash.

It is being trialled in the busy emergency department and ward 18 at Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

The device, resembling a badge worn by staff, changes colour from green, meaning hands are clean, to flashing amber, showing hands are ready for washing, to red if hands are not cleaned, when it will also beep.

Maurice Madeo, deputy director of infection, prevention and control at the hospital, said: “We already have a great track record of preventing infections, and we are always on the look-out for new ways to help us reduce them.

“Hands are important tools in healthcare, but they are also the most common source of infection.

“It’s proven that washing your hands is by far the best way to combat germs, and as winter approaches, most infections are becoming more active.”

Emergency care matron Samantha Sidwell said: “The device is very visual and you can tell at a glance whether someone has clean hands.

“We are hoping that it will bring extra confidence to our patients that the staff caring for them really do take precautions not to pass any infections on to them.

“We think it will help encourage patients to start a ‘hand hygiene’ conversation with our staff, even if it is just to ask about the badge.”

The American-made device called Biovigil is being sponsored in the UK by Sheffield-based firm B Braun.