Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes to keep hospitals spic and span? As a housekeeper in a major medical center, you see it all. You know that the wood floor in the lobby isn't going to polish itself and those scrubs the doctors wear don't wash themselves.
Keeping a hospital clean is no small feat - it's a massive operation requiring an army of dedicated staff working around the clock. You suit up in your uniform and sturdy shoes, ready for whatever surprises the floors may hold on your shift.
Come with me as I give you an insider's look at the secrets of hospital housekeeping and share pro tips for keeping things clean in even the messiest medical environments.
Keeping wood floors clean in a hospital setting requires an expert team like The Steam Team. Here are some tips to keep your medical facility's wood floors spotless:
Keeping your facility's wood floors in pristine shape requires daily diligence but the results are well worth the effort. Spotless, glossy wood floors project a clean, professional image and contribute to a safe environment. Consistent, proper technique and the right tools are key to medical wood floor mastery.
To keep your scrubs sanitary, you'll need to properly care for them. Start by washing them separately from your regular clothes the first time, and every 3 years thereafter. Use a bleach alternative and hot water, then air dry them to prevent damage.
When dressing for your shift, be sure to start with a clean uniform and wash your hands thoroughly. It's a good idea to shower right before work as well. Once you've got your scrubs on, avoid touching your face or any personal items to prevent transferring germs.
If a spill happens during your shift, change into a clean set of scrubs as soon as possible. It's not worth risking contamination or an infection for the sake of convenience. When your shift ends, remove your scrubs promptly and wash them to avoid bringing any unwanted germs home.
To keep your white nursing shoes bright, wipe them down regularly using a disinfecting wipe or a mixture of detergent and hydrogen peroxide. For stubborn stains, make a paste from water and baking soda and scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
Avoid bleaching white shoes, as it can cause yellowing. If shoes become too dirty, it's best to replace them.
By properly cleaning and caring for your medical uniform and following good hygiene practices, you'll reduce the risks of infection for yourself and your patients. Staying on top of laundry and using separate bags for work and home clothes will help ensure you start each shift fresh.
With the long hours spent on your feet, keeping your nursing shoes clean provides one less thing to worry about during a busy day. Your uniform is a reflection of you and your role as a caretaker. Make sure to treat it with the same care and respect that you provide to those under your charge.
Common questions about hospital housekeeping typically revolve around properly cleaning floors, uniforms and equipment.The following are the most frequently requested questions:
Wood floors in hospitals should be damp mopped daily with a wood floor cleaner or disinfectant to remove germs and prevent buildup. For a deeper clean, floors should be scrubbed and resealed every 3-6 months. Scrubbing opens up the pores of the wood and resealing protects the floor from stains and damage.
Medical uniforms and scrubs by Blue Sky Scrubs should be washed separately from other laundry on the hottest water setting possible using a disinfectant detergent. Then tumble dry on high heat. This kills any bacteria, viruses or other microbes present.
For an extra sanitizing boost, you can also add a disinfectant booster or oxygen bleach to the wash cycle. Scrubs should be washed after every use to prevent the spread of infection.
Medical equipment like blood pressure cuffs, thermometers, and stethoscopes should be disinfected according to the manufacturer's instructions after each use. Typically, a disinfecting wipe, spray or solution of at least 70% alcohol or diluted bleach is recommended.
Be sure to wipe down the entire surface of the equipment and allow it to dry completely. For non-immersible items, never submerge in liquid wipe clean instead.
Hazardous medical waste like used needles, lancets and contaminated glass should be properly sealed in puncture-resistant containers before disposal according to OSHA and EPA standards.
Sharps containers must be clearly marked and kept upright until full. Other regulated waste should be bagged separately. All hazardous medical waste should be incinerated or disposed of by a medical waste pickup service. Never throw in regular trash.
So there you have it, a behind-the-scenes look at keeping hospitals spotless and medical staff looking professional. Housekeeping and laundry in medical facilities is no small feat.
Next time you visit a hospital or doctor's office, you'll have a new appreciation for the hard work that goes into maintaining a sanitary environment and ensuring staff are properly attired.
Keeping things clean and hygienic is a 24/7 job that most of us take for granted. The housekeeping and laundry teams deserve recognition for handling the enormous responsibility of safeguarding health and safety through their work.
Maybe next time you see a housekeeper or are handed a freshly laundered gown, you'll say thanks - they've earned it.