How to Make Sure Your Healthcare Environment Is Clean and Safe

Posted on 26th July 2019 by jask Media

The importance of keeping a healthcare environment clean can not be understated. Without a rigorous cleaning routine, the spread of germs can endanger vulnerable patients. In this article, we’re going to explain the many important reasons why proper cleaning in healthcare is crucial, as well as how you can guarantee these high standards of cleanliness are met throughout your premises.

Why Is It Important To Keep Healthcare Environments Clean?

In a healthcare environment more than any other, the eradication of germs is critical. The majority of patients will be in a weak state, making them more susceptible to viruses and infections. Failing to clean a patient’s surroundings heightens the risk of further illness, something which is completely unacceptable for any type of healthcare environment.

Unfortunately, germ-based infections do still occur. Nosocomial is the term given for infections and viruses, unrelated to the original illness, that are acquired directly from hospitals or other healthcare environments. Not only are these avoidable infections dangerous to the patients, but according to the Department of Health, they also cost the health service around £1 billion a year.

High standards of cleanliness in the healthcare industry are not just important — they’re legally enforced. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is an independent regulator of health and social care. They ensure that all healthcare services adhere to the regulations of the Health and Social Care Act 2008. Failing to follow these strict standards of cleanliness may result in a penalty — or you may even be forced to shut down.

How To Ensure Your Healthcare Environment Is Clean

All areas of a healthcare environment should be cleaned thoroughly. Here are some tips on how to keep two of the most crucial areas clean.

Bathrooms

Naturally, germs are found all over bathrooms. In a recent study, sinks were found to harbour a huge amount of dangerous germs. It was discovered that bacteria was developing from drain pipes and finding their way into sinks, where they are then splashed around the surrounding surfaces. A daily, deep clean is imperative to ensuring these germs don’t find their way onto vulnerable patients. Here’s how to clean a bathroom:

  • Use a powerful cleaner and disinfectant on all the toilets, coating the bowl, underside and rim.
  • Use a disinfectant solution on the flush tank to ensure each flush is sterile.
  • Clean all the surfaces and sinks using wipes and sanitiser.
  • Mop the floors
  • Clean all the lights and light fixtures
  • Empty bins and replace bin liners
  • Sanitise and clean doors and door handleshospital ward

Wards

Patients spend most of their time on the ward. It is important this is cleaned daily using the following cleaning routine:

  • Remove, wash and replace bed sheets and pillowcases.
  • Santisie and wipe all surfaces
  • Clean and mop the floors
  • Clean and replace all towels
  • Empty and replace bedpans
  • Clean windows and doors
  • Use a sanitiser and wipe on the nurse call button, television remote, cabinets and drawers.

Direct Cleaning Services offer professional cleaning to commercial establishments of all types. Our cleaners are experienced working within the healthcare industry and adhere to the highest of standards of cleanliness in their work. We’ll guarantee that your premises are cleaned extremely thoroughly and in compliance with all the legal regulations. To enquire about any of our services, get in touch with our team today.