HEALTHCARE & HOSPITAL FACILITIES
HELPING HEALTHCARE
Rebecca Fairfield, Head of Key Accounts at BRITA VIVREAU, analyses the impact of Covid-19 on healthcare settings, the importance of providing safe and hygienic spaces that employees feel confident working in and the benefits of additional hygiene measures.
Over the last two years, Covid-19 has placed extraordinary strain on all healthcare staff, from hospitals to care homes. Those working on the frontline of this pandemic have made incredible sacrifices, putting their own health at risk to care for others. But while risk has always played a part in the healthcare profession, staff are more acutely aware of contamination than ever before – and the possibility of transmitting the virus to friends and family members. The impact of this has led to many healthcare professionals leaving their roles, resulting in staff shortages and further pressure on the healthcare system.
Hygiene has always been a top priority in healthcare facilities, and over the last two years, staff have grown accustomed to increased measures, such as wearing increased PPE. However, as we enter cold and flu season, and with cases rising rapidly, it’s more important than ever for germs to be contained to not only avoid further spread of the virus, but to protect staff working tirelessly within our healthcare system.
Keeping hygiene front of mind We know that having a high footfall and touch frequency at shared amenities can be a cause for concern in the wake of Covid-19, especially in care home and hospital settings where infection control is a priority to keep vulnerable people safe. Now, more than ever before, healthcare facilities need to be doing all they can to ensure the wellbeing of their staff, in addition to patients, residents and visitors, by identifying the most at-risk areas where heightened hygiene is essential. These include shared
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amenities such as water dispensers, and tea and coffee areas where people often congregate.
Systems that have installed extra hygiene measures are a great place to start. For example, installing reduced- contact water dispensers will minimise contamination. Water dispenser nozzles should be ‘touch-free’ zones to help reduce the spread of germs and the tap, drip tray and housing should be cleaned regularly.
Not only do these areas need to allow for safe distancing, but they also need to account for heightened hygiene regulations to ensure healthy and safe hydration, something that is also vital when it comes to employee wellbeing.
Some water dispensers, also come with hygiene solutions built-in. These eliminate retrograde contamination by automatically heating and sterilising the outlet tap, leaving healthcare workers with no extra work yet greater peace of mind.
Ensuring that staff have quick and easy access to fresh, hygienic water is also key, especially while wearing PPE for long period of time. Staying well hydrated helps the kidneys to balance electrolytes and filter waste from the body. What’s more, proper hydration also helps the skin and mucous membrane cells to act as a more efficient barrier when it comes to preventing bacteria from entering the body.
Dedicated hydration facilities, such as water dispensers, positioned in key areas can act as a helpful reminder for staff to remain hydrated.
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