title: The effect of a comprehensive handwashing program on absenteeism in elementary schools.
abstract: Handwashing is one of the most important factors in controlling the spread of micro-organisms and in preventing the development of infections. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a comprehensive handwashing program on absenteeism in elementary grades. Two hundred ninety students from 5 independent schools were enrolled in the study. Each test classroom had a control classroom, and only the test classroom received the intervention (education program and hand sanitizer). Absenteeism data were collected for 3 months. The number of absences was 50.6% lower in the test group (P <.001). The data strongly suggest that a hand hygiene program that combines education and use of a hand sanitizer in the classroom can lower absenteeism and be cost-effective.
authors.affiliation: Agnes Irwin School, Rosemont, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Maryellen
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Guinan
authors.forename: Maryanne
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: McGuckin
authors.forename: Yusef
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Ali
mesh_terms: D000041:Absenteeism; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006235:Hand Disinfection; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010414:Pennsylvania; D012574:Schools; D012621:Seasons; D014481:United States