The need for evidence based and validated cleaning in Medical & Allied sector

A common misunderstanding of cleanliness is that cleanliness is visual- that is, a shiny floor, a dust-free surface or a spotless mirror are all signs that the surface is now clean and sanitised. However, this is far from the truth, mainly because of two things – germs are not visible to the naked eye & secondly, a visual cognizance of cleanliness is highly subjective.

Now, when we imagine a healthcare sector, it is paramount to get cleanliness ‘right’ as infections so easily pass on from one sick patient to another as immunity levels are compromised. So, evidence-based and validated cleaning techniques are very important in that healthcare sector. Visual perceptions of cleanliness are not sufficient as gems are known to live under very strong coats of their own protective layer known as biofilms. These layers are exceptionally strong that a simple wipe will not be able to penetrate these layers.

Evidence-based and validated cleaning has several aspects or ways to execute this:

 

  1. One method is that any sort of cleaning done will have to be put through scientific tests to ensure that they pass a certain measurement set about for that test.

Example: QualGroup uses the ATP testing and ultraviolet light testing to test cleaned surfaces to ensure they have been properly disinfected.

  1. It could also mean that only certified and approved cleaning and disinfecting products are used.

Example: At QualGroup we do not use harmful chemicals in cleaning products – all our cleaning products are Green-seal certified products.

  1. Two-step cleaning of all highly & frequently touched surfaces- cleaning on arrival and disinfecting it on departure.

Implementation of evidence-based and validated cleaning in the Medical & Allied Health sector.

QualGroup implements cleaning in the Medical & Allied Health sector through its highly specialised cleaning methodology known as the High-Performance Cleaning (HPC).

This validated and evidence-based cleaning is implemented through a four-step process-

  • Map their entire cleaning process, end-to-end, in a Cleaning Plan.
  • Conduct a Method Assessment against HPC criteria to identify areas of risk and control points.
  • Validate the new cleaning methods and document them in visual training manuals.
  • Audit compliance to the validated cleaning plan and test cleaning performance on high touchpoint. 

Benefits of evidence-based and validated cleaning in the Medical & Allied Health sector.