Flu season is upon us and we have seen an influx in flu cases throughout the hospital and in the community. We expect to continue to see cases increase as the peak of the season is usually around February. We need your help as health care workers to protect yourself and our patients. The top ways to reduce the spread of the flu and protect yourself are: Hand washing - … [Read more...]
Protect your computer
We need your help to protect your computer. It’s easy, and it will safeguard us against exposing information about our patients, finances or other sensitive business matters. Here’s how: Always leave your computer on. Keeping your computer on allows us to auto-install important software updates that occur every Tuesday and Thursday, 3 a.m. Log out when you leave work … [Read more...]
Infection Prevention Alert – Case of Measles in the Houston Area
Case of Measles in the Houston Area A case of measles was recently reported to the Houston Health Department (HHD). The case involved a Houston child between the ages of 1 and 3. This is the first case of measles seen in the city of Houston since 2013. Given this recent case, it is a good time to review Houston Methodist procedure and steps for handling a suspected measles … [Read more...]
Hurricane Harvey Update
We all woke up this morning to some fairly heavy rainfall once Hurricane Harvey made landfall south of us. And we’ve already heard that several of our employees have been personally affected by the damaging winds and tornadoes. We’re happy to say all are safe, but our thoughts and prayers go out to them and their families during this challenging time. While we’re seeing a … [Read more...]
Keeping Hand Hygiene Top of Mind
There's a reason HMSL has been known to lead the system in hand hygiene efforts - we make it fun and keep it top of mind for employees as well as patients and visitors. Here's a recap of our Hand Hygiene Program and how it has played a role in our success: Secret Shopper HMSL had only one fallout in 2016, and went 11 months without a fallout HMSL recently had two … [Read more...]