A hygienic space is automatically expected by the public when entering a hospital or medical centre. Management of health-care waste, effective disinfecting and sound hygienic practices followed by all medical staff, patients and visitors are integral parts of hospital hygiene and infection control.
According to Michelle Alfa in a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control, the best practice for keeping a hospital hygienic is dependent upon the “3 Ps” of disinfection:
- The right product,
- The right process, and
- Proof of cleaning compliance.
Once the right disinfectant has been selected, the right process needs to be implemented. If cleaning time is limited, it makes no sense to disinfect ledges and window panes when the pathogens are concentrated on bedside tables, remote controls and bed rails. Start at the bed, then work outwards. Clean the bathroom last.
Hand hygiene
One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce infection is for all staff, patients and visitors to practice good hand hygiene. When visiting a hospital or health care centre, simple, quick handwashing with soap and water might not be enough as a means to ensure a hygienic environment. If at all possible, use alcohol-based hand rubs to help stop the spread of germs, or make use of the correct hand washing techniques when using soap and water.
Safe handling of waste
In an effort to keep the hospital space clean and safe for everyone, it’s important that all staff dealing with waste adopt procedures that minimize risk to themselves, others and their environment. Medical waste consists of all sharp objects, human tissue, any liquid body fluid, and laboratory specimens. The NEMA Act has effective guidelines on waste handling.
Always wear appropriate personal protection equipment when handling all waste.
Waste should be segregated at the point of generation into general, clinical, cytotoxic, radioactive and hazardous streams.
There is a legal obligation to classify and contain waste according to the facility waste management plan and state regulations.
Healthcare workers should be trained in the correct procedures for waste handling.
Management of spills
Spills must be cleaned up immediately, or as soon as practicable, and the area disinfected. In patient care areas, small spills can be easily managed by wiping the area immediately with a paper towel and then cleaning the area with detergent and water. Large spills (over 10cm) containing blood or body fluids should be contained, and in addition to cleaning as above, a chlorine-based disinfectant should be used. There are commercially available spill kits that facilitate the process. Remember to wear personal protective equipment when cleaning up blood and body substance spills.
