A follow-up audit by provincial auditor Tara Clemett reveals Regina hospitals have failed to address long-standing hand hygiene issues since 2018.As of December 2025, 43% of hospital units still have 'unacceptable' compliance rates, with 10 units falling below the 80% threshold.The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) requires unit managers to monitor compliance and develop action plans when rates drop below this benchmark.Clemett expressed concerns about repeated non-compliance, noting that some units aren't conducting audits or creating corrective measures.

Despite efforts to improve hygiene, hospital-acquired infections have steadily increased over the past three years, highlighting the critical need for staff adherence to handwashing protocols to prevent disease transmission.

The SHA emphasized that poor hygiene contributes to infections like staph and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can prolong patient stays and worsen health outcomes.

While the SHA did not directly address why recommendations from 2018 remain unimplemented, it stated corrective actions may include policy reviews and enhanced monitoring.