Jan Clarkson will lead a team responsible for infection control

NHS Lanarkshire said it was the first health board in Scotland to make such an appointment to tackle healthcare associated infection (HAI).

Jan Clarkson, from Carluke, leads a team which monitors and develops infection control standards.

She said: "I am looking forward to working towards a consistent approach to minimising HAI within Lanarkshire."

NHS Lanarkshire said it was tackling HAI with a wide range of initiatives such as the Cleanliness Champions programme.

The health board has recently increased availability of alcohol-based hand gels near to patient beds.

This encourages staff and visitors to cleanse their hands after contact with a patient.