A smart addition to a multi-faceted infection prevention program
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the UVC disinfection industry has grown exponentially. Now, more than ever, hospitals realize the importance of providing peace of mind to both patients and staff that the facility is as clean and germ-free as possible.
UVC disinfection technology has been shown to be a chemical-free method of providing enhanced disinfection in the health care space. While UVC can be a useful complement to an existing disinfection program, no one single approach to pathogen reduction can fully eliminate germs in a health care environment. This is why it is critical to deploy a layered or multi-faceted approach to cleaning and disinfection.
The importance of a layered approach
Even with the best cleaning protocols in place, it is challenging to achieve 100% compliance. In fact, studies show that more than 50% of health care surfaces are not properly disinfected. Moreover, a study by Weber, et al showed a dramatic increase in infection risk by 39-353%1 upon admission to a room that previously housed a patient with a multidrug-resistant organism.
Studies show that an integrated, bundled approach is an effective and efficient means for comprehensive pathogen reduction within a health care facility. For best results, as reported in the American Journal of Infection Control, health care facilities should establish strict cleaning protocols, including both manual cleaning and automated, total room decontamination technology, combined with extensive training and monitoring of staff2.
Montrose Memorial Hospital is one of hundreds of health care facilities that have implemented the Tru-D UVC disinfection device. The technology does not replace the hospital’s award-winning environmental services staff but supplements them – adding an extra layer of protection against harmful germs and pathogens. Four staff members are trained to take the Tru-D robot to patient rooms and initiate the disinfection process, which is completed in all four operating rooms.
“We are committed to providing the safest and cleanest environment possible through manual cleaning, hand hygiene, antibiotic stewardship and now with innovative disinfection technology,” said James Kiser, CEO of Montrose Memorial Hospital. “We continue to remain on the leading edge of technology and provide innovative care for our friends and family.”
By combining manual cleaning with enhanced terminal room disinfection, hospitals can help stop the spread of harmful germs. UVC disinfection technology not only helps to provide the cleanest health care environment possible, but it also reinforces that the facility is committed to protecting patients and destroying germs.
References:
1. Weber, D., et al (2016). ‘No touch’ technologies for environmental decontamination: focus on ultraviolet devices and hydrogen peroxide systems. Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases, 29:000-000.
2. Rutala WA, Weber DJ. Best practices for disinfection of noncritical environmental surfaces and equipment in health care facilities: A bundle approach. Am J Infect Control. 2019;47:A96-A105