Proper disinfection in hospitals: 4 essential steps for the effective use of cleaning and disinfection products
Every surface disinfected correctly can save lives! In a hospital setting, proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces are essential for preventing healthcare-associated infections and protecting the health of patients and medical staff.
Risk assessment by hospital area
Identifying the risk level specific to each area of the hospital is crucial. High-risk areas, such as operating rooms or intensive care units, require a stricter disinfection protocol than that applied to administrative spaces.
Recommendation: Use a risk assessment scheme to select the appropriate disinfectant and establish the disinfection frequency based on the specific needs of each area.
Thorough cleaning before disinfection
For the disinfectant to be effective, surfaces must be clean, free of dirt, dust, or organic residues. These can significantly reduce the efficacy of active ingredients.
Recommendation: Use a professional detergent suitable for each type of surface, ensuring the complete removal of impurities before applying the disinfectant.
Why “2-in-1” products are not recommended
“2-in-1” products (detergent + disinfectant) do not provide optimal results because combining the two processes can reduce the effectiveness of each. Cleaning and disinfection have different purposes and must be performed in separate steps: first, dirt is removed, then the disinfectant is applied to eliminate dangerous microorganisms.
Recommendation: Use dedicated products for each stage: an effective detergent for cleaning and a suitable disinfectant applied subsequently, on a pre-cleaned surface.
Implementing an effective surface cleaning and disinfection protocol
To maintain a safe and hygienic environment, it is essential to develop and follow clear daily surface cleaning procedures. These procedures must include the use of appropriate equipment (such as mops, single-use wipes, or properly sanitized reusable wipes) and effective cleaning products capable of removing dirt before applying disinfectant solutions.
Recommendation: Establish a daily cleaning and disinfection schedule, with clear responsibilities and periodic checks, to ensure that all exposed surfaces are treated appropriately and consistently.
Rigorous cleaning and correctly applied disinfection, based on careful risk assessment and the use of appropriate products, are essential for maintaining a safe hospital environment. Thus, every properly disinfected surface represents an important step in preventing infections and protecting everyone's health.
For information about effective disinfection protocols and suitable products, visit klintensiv.ro/resurse/protocoale-dezinfectie/
Bibliography
1. CDC. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/disinfection-sterilization/summary-recommendations.html/
2. CDC, (. f. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infection-control/hcp/disinfection-sterilization/cleaning.html#:~:text=Thorough%20cleaning%20is%20required%20before,the%20effectiveness%20of%20these%20processes.
3. WHO. (2016). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549929
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