NURSING NEWS — Nursing Professional Program students from the Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, who are currently undertaking their clinical practice at the Garuda Ward of Prof. Dr. Moeljono Regional General Hospital (RSD Prof. Dr. Moeljono), Surabaya, conducted a Hospital Health Promotion (PKRS) activity entitled “The Importance of Personal Hygiene in Maintaining Self-Cleanliness.” The activity was held on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. (WIB) and was attended by patients receiving treatment in the Garuda Ward. This health education session aimed to enhance patients’ knowledge and understanding of the importance of maintaining personal hygiene.
Personal hygiene is one of the fundamental human needs that must be fulfilled by every individual, including patients with mental health disorders. Good personal hygiene helps prevent infections, promotes physical health, enhances self-confidence, and supports better social interactions. During the educational session, the presenters explained various aspects of personal hygiene and emphasized the importance of hand hygiene by demonstrating the six-step handwashing technique recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). The educational materials were delivered using an attractive X-banner, making it easier for participants to understand the information presented.
The health education session was conducted in an orderly, conducive, and interactive atmosphere. All participants remained attentive throughout the activity from beginning to end. Their enthusiasm was evident during the discussion and question-and-answer session, where several participants actively asked questions about applying personal hygiene practices in their daily lives. One participant asked why it is not recommended to go to bed at midnight. The presenter explained that staying up too late may have negative effects on health, reduce the body’s resting time, and lead to drowsiness and decreased energy during activities the following day. Another participant asked why bathing only once a day is considered insufficient. The presenter explained that bathing only once a day may leave the body feeling sticky and dirty due to sweat and the accumulation of dirt. This condition may also cause itching, especially at night, thereby reducing comfort and affecting sleep quality. Through this discussion session, participants gained a better understanding of the importance of maintaining personal hygiene as part of preserving their health and comfort during hospitalization. In addition, participants were invited to demonstrate the proper handwashing steps as an evaluation of their understanding of the educational materials.
Through this Hospital Health Promotion (PKRS) activity, it is expected that patients will gain a greater awareness of the importance of maintaining personal hygiene as part of a clean and healthy lifestyle, both during hospitalization and after returning to their communities. In addition to improving knowledge, the activity is also expected to encourage patients to become more aware and independent in meeting their self-care needs, thereby improving their quality of life, preventing infections, enhancing self-confidence, and supporting the success of their rehabilitation process. Overall, the PKRS activity was carried out smoothly and orderly and received positive responses from both the participants and the healthcare professionals in attendance.
Author: Nadila Maulida
Editor: Nasya Puspita Anggraeni (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
