Infection Control

We want to protect our patients and staff from infectious diseases. For this reason, we follow guidelines, called Standard Precautions, when caring for our patients. This helps prevent the spread of organisms (germs) between patients. These precautions include good hand washing and wearing gloves when appropriate.

In certain circumstances, you may see a special sign on a patient's door with instructions for certain infection control precautions. If this sign is present, please check with the attending nurse for assistance before you visit the patient.

Many patients have weakened immune systems that make them very susceptible to a variety of illnesses. People who are ill with a cold, fever, diarrhea, flu or contagious disease should not visit a patient in the hospital. In addition, children who have been exposed to or who have chicken pox, measles, mumps, pinkeye or rubella should not come to Mercy to visit a patient.