Use of an automated hand hygiene compliance system by emergency room nurses and technicians is associated with decreased employee absenteeism.

Few studies have examined the use of hand hygiene interventions among health care personnel and employee absenteeism. To improve the hand hygiene practices of emergency room nurses and technicians, we implemented mandatory use of an automated hand hygiene compliance system. After implementation, we found reductions in employee absenteeism and the number of overtime hours worked by substitute staff. These unanticipated results demonstrate a return on investment that benefits the health of employees.