Sensor-Based Monitoring of Hand Hygiene in Hospitals: Strengths and Weaknesses of an IoT-Based System
Year: 2025
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: Hand hygiene is a critical aspect of patient safety in hospitals. To assess adherence to hand hygiene protocols, a sensor-based system has been developed that monitors the movements of healthcare professionals using Bluetooth technology. This system comprises a Data Collection Node (DCN) and several Bluetooth beacons strategically installed within the monitored department. Results from a study conducted at the Eastern Switzerland Children's Hospital indicate that while the system is capable of generating movement profiles, it fails to provide reliable adherence profiles for hand hygiene. It is essential to develop more precise technologies, which may be more costly than the Bluetooth beacon technology currently employed. Nevertheless, this project highlights potential avenues for enhancing hospital hygiene practices through digital monitoring and support.
DOI: 10.3233/shti250102
Authors: Silvan Hostettler, Dana Engel, Murat Sariyar
Institution: Bern University of Applied Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4409244476