Publish date: 20 November 2024
Bare Below the Elbow (BBE) is a term used to clarify how staff should present themselves in a clinical environment. Our patients may be more vulnerable to infection than the general population. BBE helps with effective hand washing, which in turn helps to reduce the spread of infection and helps to keep our patients safe.
To be compliant with BBE in line with the Uniform Workwear and Attire policy, staff should:
• Wear short sleeves
• Remove hand and wrist jewellery
• Ensure fingernails are short and natural. No false nails
• Ensure nails are free from nail varnish
• Cover cuts and abrasions with waterproof dressings.
What does it look like?
The facts
Staff not adhering to BBE are more likely to carry harmful bacteria and viruses under the cuffs of long sleeved garments, artificial nails and around watches and stoned rings which then are easily transferred to patients.
- Cuffs become heavily contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, and are more likely to come into contact with patients.
- Healthcare workers who wear artificial nails are more likely to harbour Gram-negative pathogens such as E.coli on their fingertips. (World Health Organisation)
- Rings and watches are known to be associated with high numbers of bacteria on the hands and wrists.
Bare Below the Elbow is supported globally, nationally and within local policy.