An estimated 1.7 million people in the USA contract hospital acquired infections each year - infections they did not have before they entered the hospitals, but contracted during their stay. 50% of all these infections are caused by the transmission of germs from a patient to another via the hands of health-care workers. It is therefore a must for health-care workers to make sure their hands are washed regularly, but as you all might know, such practices are often easily ignored.

A new sensor has been developed by a company called Xhale for hospitals and other medical facilities that could help reduce the number of patients who get life-threatening infections while receiving medical care.


The 'HyGreen' is an intelligent hand hygiene solution that uses sensors to smell the presence of soap on clinicians' hands. The system also automatically keeps track of who washed their hands when and where, and lets them know if they need to wash their hands before they see another patient.

Here’s how it works: The health-care worker squirts sanitizer gel or soap into his or her hand before passing it under a wall-mounted sensor. A wireless signal from a badge worn by the worker activates a green light on the hand-washing sensor. When the worker enters a patient room, a monitor near the bed detects the status of the badge, and flashes green if the person has clean hands. If the person has not washed, or too much time has passed between washing and approaching the patient, the badge will give a gentle “reminder” vibration.

Video Demo of HyGreen

Articles: Medgadget, OhGizmo!
Product Page: HyGreen