Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
Current scientific research provides evidence that there is approximately a 2 metre area around sinks and their drains from where splash-back could occur.
Hospitalised patients can have a variety of infections, including those from bacteria that are resistant to nearly all antibiotics, which are very difficult to treat. Such bacteria move down into hospital sink and shower drains when patients and staff use them for washing hands or showering.
Splashes from sinks and their drains can therefore carry these resistant bacteria and contaminate hands or surfaces that they land on.
Frimley Health is being proactive in the removal of sinks from high-risk locations, to reduce the risk of transmission and infection in our hospitals. Sinks in close proximity to patients are at greater risk of transmitting droplets of water carrying bacteria to patients than those present with en-suite toilets or in corridors. During the planning process for removal, you will see some sinks that are taped and labelled not for use.
What you can do to protect yourself from such bacteria:
- Use the “sinks for hand wash only” just for washing hands. Do not discard food or beverages down these sinks as these can provide “food” to the bacteria that are present in them.
- Ensure toothbrushes and other personal belongings are stored away from any sinks.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser after washing your hands.
- Ensure that hand towels are discarded in the waste bin, and not down the sink or the toilet, as drain blockages can exacerbate splash-back from drains.
- Take care to prevent foreign material like toothpaste and hair clips from falling into the drains.
- Do not wash open wounds, ulcers, or devices such as IV cannulas with shower water near drains.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Infection prevention and control (IPC) service.
About this information
Service:
Infection prevention and control (IPC)
Reference:
LL/020
Approval date:
30 March 2026
Review date:
1 March 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.