The patent pending HyGreen system consists of a handwash sensing device mounted next to each gel or soap dispenser, a bed monitor at every patient bed, and an electronic ID-badge holder worn by each healthcare worker. When the employee applies gel or soap to their hands, they simply place their hands under the handwash sensing device. This simple sweep of the hand starts a dynamic chain of events.  The handwash sensing device confirms that the hand has soap or gel on it while instantly identifying the employee. Simultaneously, a green LED light on the employee badge is illuminated verifying to the healthcare worker and the patient that a hand wash event has occurred.  Also, the date, time and location of the handwash event is wirelessly transmitted to the central server.

When the employee comes within 2-3 feet of a patient bed,  a proximity sensing bed monitor wirelessly verifies that the healthcare worker badge is illuminated.  If the badge is not illuminated when it comes into the proximity of the bed monitor, the badge vibrates a reminder to the healthcare worker to wash their hands. The illuminated green LED light gives the patient "peace of mind," knowing that the healthcare worker’s hands have been washed.

The data collected by the HyGreen system on hand washing and patient interaction allows the hospital’s infectious disease staff to monitor hand washing compliance, thus enabling more effective training and follow-up.