FEATURE
Protecting the Vulnerable
Brian Boll, Director for Healthcare at Jigsaw Cleaning Systems, explains why deep cleaning is crucial in preventing the spread of infection in healthcare environments.
Inadequate cleaning spells real danger for the healthcare sector. Nowhere is infection control more critical than within highly sensitive healthcare environments used by vulnerable people, such as intensive care wards, operating theatres and care homes. Bacteria thrive in areas where they can access factors which enable growth – warmth, light and water – and are capable of multiplying themselves quickly. In addition, high levels of dust provide opportunity for growth, meaning airborne infections are liable to spread because dust can easily be dispersed through the air.
Although many infections can be combated by antibiotics, the problem is that bacteria mutate over time, which can lead to antibiotic resistance. Reports suggest it is only a matter of time before the threat of bacteria reaches crisis point, and we become immune to the effects of antibiotics against common infections which are currently regarded as easily treatable. A recent news story revealed bacteria that can resist the most used ‘last resort’ antibiotic have been discovered by scientists in the UK.
Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureusis, commonly known as MRSA, is classed as one of the main superbugs – strains of bacteria which have become resistant to antibiotics - and is difficult to treat. Rates of MRSA in hospitals have fallen significantly in recent years, but it still remains something that healthcare facilities
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need to be conscious of and it is important for cleaning regimes to build on this.
The use of products and methods which inhibit the spread of bacteria means less infections, resulting in the highest standards of hygiene, the protection of vulnerable people and less reliance upon antibiotics. Infections are not a new threat, but a key solution lies in the development and effective use of innovative technology, which is transforming cleaning systems.
Masslinn cloths, for example, contain a material which is infused with oil specially created to attract bacteria and dirt and prevent distribution of dust particles through the air. The cloths can be used prior to wet mopping in order to minimise the transfer of germs from one area to another; which is particularly important because water is one of the three main components bacteria rely upon in order to thrive. Removing much of the bacteria before water is added at the wet mopping stage, means reducing the risk of the spread of germs.
The fact is modern methodologies deliver a range of benefits, beyond high standards in hygiene and infection control. Cleaning systems which require frequent replenishing of water means the creation of surface areas which could be slippery. This means fewer accidents as a result of falls – making healthcare environments safer for both cleaners and vulnerable people, including these in care homes.
Making the most of innovative technology generates savings in time and money, increasing productivity with less money spent on materials as a result, which is a key benefit for the healthcare sector. New methods and innovations in technology are also at the forefront where sustainability is concerned. Energy can be saved on laundering reusable cloths, with fewer chemicals and water used.
By taking steps now towards combating the threat of infection and antibiotic resistance and utilising new technology, we can help raise the standards of hygiene within healthcare environments.
www.jigsawcleaningsystems.co.uk www.tomorrowscare.co.uk
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