5 Forgotten Areas in a Medical Centre That Need Extra Attention by Cleaning Services

The operating room is a critical space within healthcare facilities, where surgical procedures take place, and patients are treated. Apart from being sterile environments, operating rooms are also areas that have patient safety high up on their list. This top priority to patient safety includes not just keeping the patient safe from the many surgical instruments. But also ensuring the surgery is done in a clean and infection-free environment. An area that is free of dust, dirt, and harmful pathogens.

While it’s true that operating rooms in all hospitals are spaces that are scrubbed and cleaned regularly. You’ll be surprised at how this is not entirely the case. There are certain areas that get overlooked during the cleaning process and which can spell danger in the long run. And this is where cleaning services come in. To know more you can contact commercial cleaning services in Manchester for professional guidance.

Let’s find out the 5 trouble spots that cleaners miss while sanitizing the operating room.

 

1. Anesthesia Machines

Anesthesia machines are a critical component of an operating room. They provide patients with the necessary anesthesia during surgical procedures. These machines can also harbor bacteria and other contaminants if not cleaned properly. Not only should the anesthesia machines be cleaned and disinfected regularly. All its components such as hoses, masks, and connectors too need a good scrub from time to time.

2. Walls and Doors

While the walls and doors of the operating room may seem like a minor detail. They are an essential part of maintaining a clean and sterile environment. Over time the walls and doors can become contaminated with bacteria. Also, other pathogens, especially in areas where there is high traffic. It is important to clean and disinfect these surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of infection.

3. Light Fixtures and Ceiling Tiles

These areas may accumulate dust and debris over time, which can impact the air quality in the operating room. Dust and debris can also fall onto the surgical field during procedures, which can increase the risk of infection. That is why it is important to clean these areas regularly. This helps maintain a clean and sterile environment in the operating room.

4. Floor Drains

Floor drains are an essential component of the operating room. As they help to drain fluids and prevent the buildup of contaminants. If not cleaned, these drains can become clogged with debris and bacteria. This can lead to the spread of infection and pose greater dangers. To prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure the proper functioning of the drainage system. It is essential to clean and disinfect floor drains regularly.

5. Cabinets and Drawers

Cabinets and drawers in the operating room may be used to store surgical instruments, linens, and other supplies. These areas can accumulate dust and debris over time, which can impact the cleanliness of the operating room. It’s not enough to merely clean them from the outside. They also need to be dusted and wiped from the inside. This prevents the buildup of bacteria and ensures that all supplies are stored in a clean and sterile environment.

Cleaning services for medical facilities require special attention to ensure a clean and safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors. Here are some extra attention areas that cleaning services should focus on in medical settings:

 

1. High-touch surfaces:

   High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, handrails, and elevator buttons can harbor germs. And should be regularly cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of infections.

2. Patient rooms:

   Patient rooms should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, including beds, mattresses, bedside tables, and other furniture. Special care should be taken to clean areas where patients may come into direct contact. Such as bed rails, call buttons, and remote controls.

3. Waiting areas:

   Waiting for areas in medical facilities are often high-traffic areas where patients and visitors congregate. Cleaning services should pay extra attention to these areas, including chairs, tables, magazines, and toys. And ensure that they are cleaned and disinfected regularly.

4. Restrooms:

   Restrooms in medical facilities should be cleaned and sanitized frequently. Paying attention to toilet seats, faucets, sinks, and other high-touch surfaces. Adequate supplies of hand soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer should always be available.

5. Medical equipment:

   Cleaning services should follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting medical equipment. Such as examination tables, diagnostic tools, and treatment devices. To ensure that they are properly cleaned and free from contamination.

6. Floors and carpets:

   Floors and carpets in medical facilities should be cleaned and maintained regularly. To prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and pathogens. Special attention should be given to areas where spills or accidents may occur. Such as patient rooms, treatment rooms, and corridors.

7. Waste disposal:

   Proper waste disposal is critical in medical facilities to prevent the spread of infections. Cleaning services should ensure that all medical waste. Including sharps containers and biohazardous waste, is disposed of properly according to local regulations.

8. Air quality:

   Indoor air quality is important in medical facilities to prevent the spread of airborne pathogens. Cleaning services should ensure that ventilation systems. Like air filters, and air purifiers are regularly cleaned and maintained to promote clean and healthy air.

9. Compliance with infection control protocols:

   Medical facilities often have specific infection control protocols and guidelines that must be followed. Cleaning services should be knowledgeable about these protocols and ensure that they are adhered to at all times.

10. Staff training and personal protective equipment (PPE):

    Cleaning staff in medical facilities should receive proper training on infection control, the use of cleaning chemicals, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns. Regular training and refresher courses should be provided to ensure that cleaning staff is knowledgeable and competent in their tasks.

Cleaning services for medical facilities require extra attention to high-touch surfaces, patient rooms, waiting areas, restrooms, medical equipment, floors and carpets, waste disposal, air quality, compliance with infection control protocols, and staff training and PPE. Adhering to these guidelines can help maintain a clean and safe environment in medical facilities and reduce the risk of infections.

How Can Commercial Cleaning Services Help

Cleaning and disinfection of the operating room are critical to maintaining a clean and sterile environment for patients as well as healthcare workers. During surgical procedures, the patient’s body is open and exposed, making them more susceptible to infections. Even a small amount of bacteria can cause an infection that could lead to serious health complications.

Here’s where cleaning services play a crucial role in maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room. They are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is cleaned and disinfected before and after each surgical procedure. Commercial cleaning services in Manchester are available for you.

The cleaning staff will start by removing all visible debris. Such as used surgical instruments, bandages, and other materials, from the operating room. Then they will use specialized cleaning agents and disinfectants to clean and sanitize every surface in the operating room, including floors, walls, and equipment.

The cleaning services staff will also ensure that the air quality in the operating room is clean. This is done by regularly changing the filters in the HVAC system and using air purifiers. The cleaning staff will also monitor the humidity and temperature levels in the operating room to ensure that they are at the appropriate levels.

Cleaning services follow strict protocols and guidelines to ensure that they meet the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control. They are trained to follow specific cleaning procedures and use specialized equipment and cleaning agents that are effective in killing microorganisms.

Cleanliness is necessary to prevent the introduction of harmful microorganisms into the surgical site. Sterilization and disinfection of equipment, surfaces, and the environment help ensure that any microorganisms present are killed, and that the risk of infection is minimized.