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AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO HOSPITAL CLEANING: MICROFIBRE CLOTH AND STEAM CLEANING TECHNOLOGY
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Executive summary This report explains the implications and benefits of an integrated approach to hospital cleaning which utilises a combination of microfibre cleaning materials and periodic steam cleaning. The cleanliness of hospitals is an issue that is frequently raised at national level, and the NHS is actively seeking ways to improve the cleanliness of healthcare premises. This topic is of particular concern because cleanliness standards have been linked with the reduction of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), particularly MRSA and Clostridium difficile. Current practice is to remove contaminants physically by cleaning, and – in patient-sensitive areas such as intensive care units (ICUs) – with the addition of biocides (disinfectants). Recent research concluded that both microfibre materials and steam cleaning have a proven ability to raise levels of both aesthetic and microbiological cleanliness, particularly when employed together as an integrated cleaning programme. However, this research also revealed that introducing these technologies may have far-reaching – and potentially beneficial – implications for ward management. In particular, the study highlighted the important role that domestic staff play in maintaining cleanliness, and illustrated how – if introduced correctly – these new techniques will have a positive impact on the relationships between domestic and medical staff. In order to fully understand the advantages and implications of introducing these new techniques, Section 1 of this report summarises the efficacy of: existing cleaning material; microfibre materials; and steam cleaning. Each removes contaminants under laboratory conditions to a variable degree. On wards, however, it is clear that the new techniques – which depend upon a rigorous one-cloth-per-patient-area cleaning regime – can deliver heightened levels of cleanliness, and reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination. There are, of course, financial implications when introducing new cleaning techniques. The recent study did not review these. However, the authors of this report have reviewed cost implications from several UK-based, industry-sponsored studies (and one from Sweden); and likely costs are explained and estimated in Section 2. The benefits of these new techniques can only be achieved through a carefully implemented and frequently reinforced training programme (for both domestic and nursing staff). This report presents guidelines for the introduction of an integrated cleaning system, based on the experiences gained during the on-ward study (Section 3). Finally, this report acknowledges that the widespread adoption of these techniques will result in a radical re-think of the cleaning process, and the development of a new cleaning culture because of the special requirements of these techniques – particular the need for a dedicated laundry facility. Further studies are required to: evaluate the wider cost implications; investigate the use of these techniques in highly sensitive areas; and to validate the efficacy of hand-held cleanliness-monitoring equipment.
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Contents Introduction
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Section 1 – Cleaning techniques and technologies 1.1 Cloths, mops and detergents 1.2 Microfibre cleaning materials 1.3 Steam cleaning
5 5 7 9
Section 2 – The costs and benefits of new cleaning technologies 2.1 Costs 2.2 Potential savings 2.3 Non-cost issues
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Summary of technologies
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Section 3 – Guidance on implementing new cleaning techniques 3.1 Options appraisal 3.2 Managing change 3.3 Preparing for implementation 3.4 Launch of new cleaning regime
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Section 4 – Conclusion and recommendations
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References
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email: info@duplexcleaning.com.au
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