Cleanliness in Aged and Senior Care Facilities is a Must for Health and Sanitation Reasons

October 13, 2016

While cleanliness is important in all facilities and establishments, it is particularly important in aged and senior care facilities. For one, cleanliness plays two significant functions; the cleanliness of all surfaces and the prevention and control of infections. For another, the fundamental requirements for cleanliness in an aged and senior care facility requires thorough and frequent cleaning.

A Huge Impact

The importance of cleanliness in aged and senior care facilities cannot be overemphasized. Cleanliness plays a big part in the prevention and control of many diseases and infections. Now more than ever, wellness type facilities are involved in a fight against healthcare associated infections (HAIs). Studies show that HAIs can decrease by more than 70 percent when proper and steps are taken for control and prevention. In fact, preventing HAIs is possible. However, there has to be a conscious effort from everyone in order to prevent and control HAIs. That includes all the staff, nurses, aides, visitors and the custodian or cleaner. In truth, when everyone works together, numerous lives are saved.

What is more, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that HAIs is accountable for about 1.7 million infections and 99,000 related deaths each year. There are different types of infections for which:

• 14 percent are bloodstream infections
• 22 percent are surgical site infections
• 32 percent are urinary tract infections

The Prevention and Control of Infections

There is great emphasis on the prevention and control of infections in senior care facilities. This is because, people who live in these facilities are generally older, most likely sick, may have a weak immune system and are more susceptible to diseases than the overall public.

Meaning, cleanliness is a must for health and sanitation reasons. As well, the cleaning circumstances are not typical. For instance, there are more spills and “accidents” which need to be cleaned thoroughly.

A System

Clearly, keeping aged and senior care facilities thoroughly cleaned can be quite challenging. However, the best way to confront the challenge is to have a long-term cleaning system. It should be a system that addresses a variety of cleaning situations plus the sanitation and hygiene needs in order to control and prevent HAIs and other diseases. As well, the cleaning schedule should be based on the needs of the residents. For example, the best time to mop the cafeteria floor is not during meal times. As well, spills and “accidents: need to be cleaned up efficiently and properly in a timely fashion without causing embarrassment to anyone.

However, with an effective cleaning system and schedule, you can be rest assured that the facilities will prevent and control most all diseases and HAIs.

Faye's Cleaning Pty Ltd

ABN 74 123 030 080
Suite 3, 17 Comalco Court, Thomastown, VIC 3074
T: (03) 9460 5592 | F: (03) 9460 5562

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