The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the way we think about healthcare. In addition to posing serious health risks to the general public, it also promotes the spread of the illness among healthcare workers in various healthcare settings. The major cause of this is no proper maintenance and care.
Infection should be a major concern as it not only protects the well-being of patients but also healthcare workers. This is where being prepared beforehand and using hygiene products comes in. Therefore, let’s dive deep into how to prevent infections, what products are needed and more.
How Does Infection Spread in Healthcare Settings?
Before knowing how to avoid infections in healthcare settings, let’s find out the root cause. Working in the medical field means coming in contact with various kinds of infection sources. The three main methods by which they can spread are:
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Through bodily fluids or blood from an infected individual such as cough droplets or sneezes.
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Through infectious materials that may come in contact with you.
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Infection transmission through air.
What are the Infectious Risks Involved for Healthcare Workers?
As said earlier, infections and diseases are likely to spread more among healthcare workers as they often come in contact with bodily fluids. By any chance, if any worker is infected and neglected, the consequences can be severe. However, the risks involved can vary depending on the source. For instance:
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If the source is HIV positive, you may need to take preventative medication. Make sure to initiate within a few hours of occurrence.
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If the source has syphilis, you may need to receive antibiotics.
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If the source has hepatitis B, you may need to take hepatitis B immune globulin, especially if you lack immunity or may not have received any vaccinations.
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If the source has hepatitis C, you may need to take antiviral medications.
Depending on the source and type of disease, you may also require repeat tests and follow-up checks.
How to Prevent Infectious Disease in Healthcare Settings?
One of the most long-standing problems in healthcare settings is hospital-acquired infections or HAIs. These infections occur due to various bacteria, fungi, viruses and other sources. If neglected, it can lead to severe complications as well as death. Wondering how to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in healthcare settings? Well, here are some best practices for healthcare workers to follow for better safety:
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Basic Hygiene
The very first step in preventing the spread of infectious diseases is following basic hygiene practices. This includes:
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Washing hands gently with soap and water or you may also use hygiene products like hand gel or sanitisers both before and after coming in contact with the person.
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Also, wash your hands after being exposed to body fluids or after coming in contact with contaminated areas or elements.
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Maintain your respiratory hygiene such as covering your cough and sneezing properly. Also, maintain distance to prevent outbreaks.
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Engage in proper physical distance and or alter how employees collaborate.
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PPE or Personal Protective Equipment
In addition to basic hygiene practices, every healthcare worker needs to wear personal protective equipment. This mainly includes items like:
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Masks
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Gloves
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Face shields
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Eye protections
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Gowns and other
However, based on the patient interaction and health condition, the PPE may vary. Also, remember to remove gloves before touching other surfaces after contacting contaminated elements. Be it pneumonia or influenza, using certified PPE or Personal Protective equipment properly can help you protect everyone in your healthcare industry from potentially dangerous infections that would otherwise be impossible to prevent.
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Environmental Controls
Another way to prevent infections from spreading among healthcare professionals is by taking care of the overall environment of the healthcare setting. This includes:
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Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and floors using proper hygiene equipment.
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You must also handle linens properly.
It is common and easy for germs to pass from one surface to another. Therefore, it is important to have each corner and room cleaned with proper cleaning products. Infection prevention depends on knowing what you are up against and knowing the proper treatment. To successfully stop the spread of infections, it is also important to have the right cleaning supplies.
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Proper Waste Management
Disposing of waste properly is another crucial step in stopping infections from spreading. Throwing away injections and sharp objects carelessly may lead to injuries and diseases. Therefore, one must follow proper waste disposal of items like needles and syringes. Some of the best practices are:
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Store waste in designated rooms.
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Reduce unnecessary waste.
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Separate general waste from hazardous waste.
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Transport general and hazardous waste separately.
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Use dedicated trolleys and containers for waste disposal. Also, clean and disinfect them daily.
In addition to this, it is also important for healthcare workers to know about safe practices like not using the same syringe or needle more than one time.
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Awareness and Training
Preventing the spread of infections in your healthcare settings requires the staff members to wear authorized PPE or personal protective equipment. Healthcare workers must also be trained on sterilizing medical devices that are used to treat various conditions of individual patients.
Additionally, they must also receive proper training on hand washing methods and for emergency conditions. In addition to spreading awareness among healthcare workers, you must also teach patients to follow the rules for better safety.
Some Must-have Hygiene Products in Healthcare Settings
With the right hygiene equipment and products, everyone can proceed with the required peace of mind, knowing that there is less chance of infectious disease transmission. Wondering what are the best hygiene equipment every healthcare setting must have? Well, here is the list for you:
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Sanitisers
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Disinfectant spray or wipes
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Spray bleach cleaners
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Microfiber cleaning cloths
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Medical textile products and more
Do Your Best To Prevent Infections
At MedGuard, we are the leading supplier of healthcare hygiene products of the best quality. We are equipped with a wide range of cleansing supplies and hygiene products from the world’s most reliable brands. Being made using high-quality materials, these products withstand the test of time and fight against infections effectively. For more, you can rely on our customer support team as they are readily available to help you.
