As per Merriam-Webster, the term "clean," when used as a transitive verb, denotes the action of "eliminating dirt, impurities, or extraneous matter" from a surface. While this definition is clear-cut, it proves insufficient when applied to the diverse cleaning requirements of various facilities.
This inadequacy is particularly evident in the context of medical institutions. Hospitals and clinics, dedicated to health and healing, demand cleanliness standards far surpassing those of residential or commercial spaces.
Consequently, engaging professional medical cleaners becomes imperative for achieving the desired outcomes. The focus of medical office cleaning extends beyond mere removal of dirt and spills; it involves preventing disease transmission and cultivating an environment conducive to overall wellness. Standard cleaning procedures fall short in achieving these objectives.
Distinguishing Between Cleaning and Disinfecting
Understanding the disparity between medical office cleaning and other cleaning activities requires an appreciation of the difference between cleaning and disinfecting. While often used interchangeably, these terms signify distinct processes.
Cleaning, as previously defined, pertains to the surface-level elimination of dirt and impurities. For instance, wiping a countertop with a cloth removes dust and debris. Sweeping a floor or washing a plate follows a similar principle.
Conversely, disinfecting involves inactivating or destroying bacteria, viruses, and other microbes, rendering them incapable of infection or reproduction. While cleaning can eliminate some germs, disinfectants with active ingredients disrupt or damage pathogen cells, a crucial step in healthcare settings where disease prevention is paramount.
Varied Standards for Healthcare Cleaning
In healthcare environments, cleaning and disinfecting must be terminal, meaning the facility serves as the endpoint for infections. Hospitals should be places where individuals seek healing, not where they acquire new illnesses.
Terminal cleaning is a serious undertaking requiring specialized training and equipment. Entrusting this responsibility to professional cleaners with the appropriate expertise and tools is essential. Additionally, designated hospital staff, particularly the infection control officer, should undergo training to oversee and audit the process effectively.
Management of Hazardous Materials and Waste
Unlike other environments, healthcare facilities routinely handle hazardous materials and waste such as human waste, blood, and used medical supplies. Proper handling and disposal are crucial to prevent contamination and injury. Specific disposal containers may be required, and knowledge about segregation and recycling is insufficient for medical office cleaning.
Specialized Cleaning Equipment
Terminal cleaning in hospitals demands specialized equipment, including industry-level steam cleaners, foggers, heavy-duty floor scrubbers, and dryers capable of frequent use. Multiple sets of tools and equipment are necessary to prevent contamination.
Focus on High-Touch Areas
To curb disease transmission, experts recommend the sanitization and disinfection of high-touch areas and objects. Medical facilities, in contrast to commercial establishments, feature numerous touchpoints, such as hospital bed headboards, handrails, tabletops, room telephones, IV poles, and more. Thoroughly disinfecting these touchpoints is critical, as even a small amount of bacteria or virus can pose an infectious risk. Depending on facility size, dedicating hours to disinfecting touchpoints alone is imperative.
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