COMPLIANCE INFO_1975-2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS (BSI) Medical devices or instruments that require sterilization or disinfection should be thoroughly cleaned before being exposed to the germicide, and the manufacturer's instructions for the use of the germicide should be followed. Studies have shown that HIV is inactivated rapidly after being exposed to commonly used chemical germicides at concentrations that are much lower than used in practice. Embalming fluids are similar to the types of chemical germicides that have been tested and found to completely inactive HIV. In addition to co®aercially available chemical germicides, a solution of sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) prepared daily is an inexpensive and effective germicide. Concentrations ranging from approximately 500 ppm (1:100 dilution of household bleach) sodium hypochlorite to 5,000 ppm (1:10 dilution of household bleach) are effective depending on the amount of organic material (e.g. blood, Gucus) present on the surface to be cleaned and disinfected. Commercially available chemical germicides t.,ay be - more compatible with certain medical devices that aright be corroded by repeated exposure to sodium hypochlorite, especially to the 1:10 dilution. b. Housekeeping Environnental surfaces such as walls, floors, and other surfaces are not associated with transmission of infections to patients or health- care workers. Therefore, extraordinary attempts to disinfect or sterilize these environmental surfaces are not necessary. However, cleaning and removal of soil should be done routinely according to the existing policy. Gloves, gowns, masks, and/or goggles (as appropriate) will be worn by housekeepping personnel whenever contact with -grossly contaminated equipment/areas is anticipated. Decision as to choice of appropriate protective apparel will be made based on knowledge of the job to be done and the extent of the exposure. Consult the existing housekeeping policy for appropriate apparel for patient care areas. 1) Routine cleaning and removal of soil shall be done in all patient care areas. 2) In addition to routine cleaning, horizontal surfaces (e.g., bedside tables, window sills, and hard -surfaced flooring) shall be cleaned with an effective germicide whenever soiling or visible spills of blood and body fluid occur. 3) Cleaning of walls, blinds, ceilings, and curtains is only recommended if they are visibly soiled (exception: strict isolation). 4) Terminal cleaning shall be performed for all patients upon discharge and/or removal from a known category of isolation/precaution.