The TakeCHARGE Campaign Moves to Step #4: Prevent Infections — Ask Care-Givers to Wash Their Hands

WANTAGH, N.Y. - July 3, 2026 - PRLog -- "Wash your hands. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Do it often." How many times have we heard this advice from medical professionals?

That's because since the 19^th century hand-washing has been at the heart of efforts to prevent and contain infections. Medical staff have been required to do this for many years, but the reality of health care practice means that it doesn't always happen.

Today we're all encouraged to do it, and for more than 25 years, Pulse Center for Patient Safety Education and Advocacy has been teaching individuals how to insist — respectfully but firmly — that clinicians wash their hands in the patient's presence, even if they say they did it just before entering the room.

Now (http://ever.Now), Step 4!

That is Step 4 of the TakeCHARGE Campaign: 5 Steps to Safer Health Care (https://takecharge.care) The campaign encourages everyone to take five steps, over five months, that will help lead to safer health care for all.

Learn more about Step 4 here (https://takecharge.care/step-4/), including videos on how to talk to your doctor about hand-washing, and how to wash hands properly.

According to Pulse CPSEA's President Ilene Corina (BCPA), "Most people perform better when they think they're being observed or assessed, that's only natural. That means it's up to us — patients, their families, and professional patient advocates — to keep up the vigilance. When we can demonstrate to healthcare staff that we know about the risks to patients, and the measures that can reduce those risks, we may help reduce the death rates too.

"But it's not just about germs," she adds. "It's about respect and trust. How can I trust someone who doesn't respect me by simply cleaning their hands and following the required safe practices?"

The TakeCHARGE Campaign also spreads its message via social media:

Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/takechargecampaign),

Twitter (https://twitter.com/TakechargeC),

Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/takechargecampaign5steps/),

and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/takecharge-campaign-5160a31a3/).