Senior medics should 'lead by example' on handwashing

SENIOR medical professionals should be setting an example on handwashing rather than lagging behind, an MSP has said.

Speaking after latest statistics were released through a hospital handwashing audit, the Liberal Democrat's health spokesman Ross Finnie said it was up to senior figures to show how it is done.

He said: "If ministers are serious about tackling hygiene in hospitals then they will extend their zero tolerance approach to visitors as well as staff.

"It's good news that staff are generally washing their hands more, but if visitors don't do the same, infections will still spread.

"I am, however, concerned that doctors are still lagging behind when it comes to washing their hands."