John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 121: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason it is not possible to have on-the-spot cleanliness checks in the medicinal areas of hospitals in the same way that on-the-spot fines are carried out in kitchens, in view of the danger which unhygienic wards pose; the reason such measures are not in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27321/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The national hygiene audit, arranged by the Health Service Executive and the national hospitals office was completed on schedule at the end of August. This involved visits to each of the 54 acute hospitals in the country by a team of independent consultants. The purpose of the audit was to assess the standards of environmental hygiene and cleanliness in each hospital and to provide baseline information.

The final report from the audit is expected to be presented to the director of the national hospitals office this month. This will form the basis for the changes that are required in both work environments and work practices to meet the highest possible standards of cleanliness in hospital settings.

The Health Service Executive will also publish national infection control standards and national cleaning standards, a consistent and robust set of hygiene standards for hospitals. Where previously standards may have depended on the approach of a particular hospital or health board, the HSE can now ensure every hospital will share and meet the same high standards of cleanliness and infection control.