Automatic Hand Hygiene Monitoring Systems for Infection Prevention in Healthcare Settings: A Short Review of Literature

Authors

Ali Barzegar Khanghah KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network - Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto
Shaghayegh Chavoshian KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network - Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto
Atena Roshan Fekr KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network - Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto

Electronic monitoring, Hand hygiene compli- ance, Healthcare-associated infections, Infection prevention and control

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain a

global challenge, with significant morbidity, mortality, and eco-

nomic implications. Improving Hand Hygiene (HH) compliance

is one of the most effective strategies for reducing HAIs. How-

ever, compliance rates remain suboptimal. Electronic Hand Hy-

giene Monitoring Systems (EHHMS) have emerged as a prom-

ising solution to address this challenge by providing real-time

feedback and promoting behavior change among healthcare

workers. This narrative review examines the methodologies

used in EHHMS, classifying them into four key categories: rule-

based systems, signal processing, machine learning, and data fu-

sion approaches. Rule-based systems, though widely used, are

limited by their static nature and inability to adapt to dynamic

healthcare environments. Signal processing methods focus on

localizing hand hygiene events, while machine learning (ML)

approaches mostly focused on HH quality. Data fusion tech-

niques improve monitoring by integrating inputs from multiple

sensors. Despite their potential, EHHMS face challenges in ac-

curacy, intrusiveness, and integration into clinical workflows.

This review highlights the potential role of ML in overcoming

these limitations. By addressing current barriers, EHHMS can

play a crucial role in enhancing HH practices and reducing HAI

rates, ultimately improving patient safety and healthcare qual-

ity.