Hand Washing the Right Way: Father Muller Observes World Hand Hygiene Day

May 8, 2025

Mangaluru, May 5, 2025: The Infection Prevention and Control Committee (IPCC) of Father Muller Medical College Hospital commemorated World Hand Hygiene Day on May 5, 2025, with a week-long celebration culminating in a grand valedictory programme that reinforced the global message: “Clean Hands Save Lives.”

The event commenced with a soulful prayer song led by Ms. Reeta and team, invoking divine strength and guidance. Dr. Thomas S. K., IPCC Chairperson, escorted the dignitaries to the dais, followed by a warm welcome address highlighting the importance of hand hygiene in both hospital and home settings.

The programme was graced by several dignitaries:

Rev. Fr. Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director, FMCI (President of the function)
Dr. Geover Joslen Lobo, Professor & Head, Dept. of Neurosurgery (Chief Guest)
Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, FMMCH
Dr. Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean, FMMC
Rev. Sr. Nancy Priya Mathias, Chief Nursing Officer, FMMCH
Dr. Uday Kumar, Medical Superintendent, FMMCH
Dr. Kavitha, IPC Officer, FMMCH

Dr. Geover Joslen Lobo, the chief guest, reflected on the transformative power of hand hygiene in enhancing patient safety and clinical outcomes. He traced its historical relevance and emphasized its continued necessity in modern-day healthcare, especially in surgical practices. His address highlighted how simple habits can have a profound impact on public health.

In his presidential address, Rev. Fr. Richard Coelho reiterated the importance of promoting hand hygiene practices beyond hospital walls—especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that handwashing is not merely a medical necessity but a fundamental life skill in preventive health.

The programme also featured interactive spot games organized by Ms. Deena Andrade, IPCN & IPCC Secretary, adding engagement and fun to the awareness campaign. A creative presentation followed, showcasing entries from the Rangoli and Selfie competitions themed around hand hygiene.

Prize Distribution Ceremony

To recognize creativity and awareness efforts, prizes were distributed to winners of various competitions held during Hand Hygiene Week. Fr. Nilesh Crasta, Assistant Administrator, FMMCH, along with other dignitaries, presented mementoes to judges and winners.

Competition Highlights

QUIZZY QUIZ (For Staff Nurses):

🥇 1st Prize: Ms. Preemal Sequeira & Sr. Vinitha – Sacred Heart 1st & 2nd
🥈 2nd Prize: Ms. Renisha Dsouza & Ms. Aleena Baby – Labor Room & H Ward
🥉 3rd Prize: Ms. Sushma Shreyenka & Ms. Aneesha Shajan – Main Post Op & Main OT

SPOT QUIZ (For FMCON Students):

🥇 1st Prize: Ms. Merlyn Priya Moras – 2nd Year MSc
🥈 2nd Prize: Ms. Neoma Saloni Miranda – 3rd Year BSc
🥉 3rd Prize: Mr. Blannan Dion Semento – 4th Year BSc

IPC COMPETENCY TEST (Ward In-charges & Link Nurses):

🥇 1st Prize: Ms. Wilma Goveas – BICU
🥈 2nd Prize: Ms. Precilla – Casualty In-charge
🥉 3rd Prize: Ms. Hebziba – Sacred Heart 1st Floor

RANGOLI COMPETITION (Housekeeping & Nursing Staff):

🥇 1st Prize: Ms. Pushpa & Ms. Geetha R – Asha Kiran 5th
🥈 2nd Prize: Ms. Karishma & Ms. Stenila Lobo – Main Post Op
🥉 3rd Prize: Mr. Prakashraj & Ms. Tanusha – Main OT

SELFIE COMPETITION (Open to All FMCI Members):

🥇 1st Prize: Ms. Reema and team – AK-3rd
🥈 2nd Prize: Ms. Reena and team – Dialysis Unit
🥉 3rd Prize: Ms. Sabeena and team – FMCON Mental Health Nursing Faculty

Spot Game Winners:

Mr. Vinu V. T – CSR, 3M
Ms. Wilma Goveas – BICU In-charge

A special recognition was given to the vibrant dance performance by students of the Father Muller College of Nursing, who depicted hand hygiene practices through art and rhythm.

Hand Hygiene Rolling Trophy 2024

The most anticipated moment—the announcement of the Rolling Trophy Winners for best hand hygiene compliance (based on annual audits)—was made:

🏆 Best Ward: Sacred Heart 1st Floor – 72% Compliance
(Received by Ms. Precilla, Ward In-charge)
🏆 Best High-Risk Area (ICU): ICCU/ITU – 72% Compliance
(Received by Ms. Rita Monteiro, In-charge)

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Prasanna, Associate Professor, Dept. of Microbiology & AMSP Secretary, followed by the Institutional Anthem. The day stood as a shining example of Father Muller’s enduring commitment to patient safety and quality healthcare.