7 Strategies for Enhanced Infection Control in Hospital Cleaning Services
Preventing the spread of infections within hospitals and medical facilities requires diligent environmental hygiene and cleaning. Hospital cleaning staff play a crucial frontline role in infection control. Utilizing proven strategies can significantly improve disinfection results.
Here are 7 key strategies hospital cleaning services should employ to enhance infection prevention:
#1 Follow Established Disinfecting Procedures
Hospital cleaners must adhere to proven cleaning protocols specifically designed to neutralize pathogens. This includes using EPA-registered disinfectants proven effective against viruses and bacteria, following proper dwell times, and covering all high-touch surfaces. Consistent procedure is critical.
#2 Use Color Coding Systems
Adopting a color coding system designates cloths, mops, and cleaning tools for specific hospital zones. This avoids cross-contamination between lower and higher-risk areas like ICUs. Assigning colors to items ensures they are not used elsewhere.
#3 Focus on Hand Hygiene & PPE
Proper hand hygiene before, during, and after cleaning procedures is paramount. All required personal protective equipment like gloves, gowns and masks should also be worn and changed regularly. Stopping spread via hands and clothing is key.
#4 Coordinate with Infection Control Staff
Liaise regularly with hospital infection control staff to identify problematic areas or processes needing improvement. Enlist their expertise to strengthen disinfecting programs and training. A collaborative approach gets better results.
#5 Use Microfiber Cleaning Cloths
Replace old cotton cloths with microfiber. The positively charged microfiber captures and traps more germs and particles through electrostatic attraction and superior absorption. Disinfect or replace microfiber cloths frequently.
#6 Identify High-Touch Surfaces
Note high-contact touchpoints like phones, keyboards, bed rails, call buttons, door handles, and tabletops. Tailor cleaning to target these areas more frequently and thoroughly to remove pathogen buildup.
#7 Ongoing Training
Conduct ongoing training for all cleaning personnel as new risks and protocols emerge. Cover techniques for achieving proper disinfection in all hospital areas. Refresher courses reinforce good practices.
With stringent procedures and staff training in place, hospital cleaning teams can effectively eliminate pathogens and avoid spreading infection within the facilities they serve. A consistent focus on proven disinfecting strategies is central to a strong infection control program.