[Uniform and ornaments of hands of Healthcare workers: a point prevalence survey in Ausl of Rimini].

INTRODUCTION: The debate about uniform and hand ornament of nurses, technical and supporting staff is focused on two main topics: the risk of infections and the effect on the professional image perceived by patient.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: to describe how nurses, technical and supporting staff dress their uniform.

SECONDARY OBJECTIVE: to verify the use of ornaments of the hands during routine care.

METHODS: The survey was conducted in a sample of 503 operators on 67 working contexts in hospital during 14 days. Study questionnaire was composed by 5 items that described behaviors regarding uniform (item 1-2) and the presence of hand ornaments (item 3-4-5).

RESULTS: The 17.3% of observed subjects did not wear the uniform and identification badge appropriately; 16.1% had hand ornaments.

DISCUSSION: Despite patient delegates, through advisory committee, pointed out the need to identify the workers through the uniform and badge, our results showed inadequate behaviours. The presence of ornaments that interfere with hands hygiene and increase infection risk is a critical issue that has to be periodically monitored. Future interventions are needed to improve behaviours of healthcare personnel.