Plastic surgery centers visited to receive an elective
procedure, meaning that quality is of utmost importance in not only the results
of the procedure itself, but in the facility, post op recovery, and experience
overall. Surfaces in healthcare facilities are often overlooked or difficult to
clean, and more commonly, the traditional methods of cleaning being utilized
are not sufficient. A 2017 study by the Journal of Hospital Infections
found that in 2016, 31% of privacy curtains in a Burns/Plastic Surgery ward
were contaminated with MRSA1. If contaminants are not properly
taken care of, there is a high risk for multiple transmissions of a disease or
bacteria. Studies determined that the most common nosocomial pathogens,
diseases acquired during a stay at a healthcare facility, may well survive on
surfaces for months and be a continuous source of transmission if not properly
treated. The best way to reduce nosocomial pathogens is through
disinfection of surfaces in the immediate environment of patients2.
How Does UV Light Solve These Problems?
Ultraviolet light provides chemical-free, liquid-free
disinfection that has been proven effective against viruses, bacteria, molds,
and spores. UV-C light can reach surfaces that are harder to wipe down, such as
remotes, knobs, and curtains. When imagining luxury service, patients want to
be ensured top-rated customer service from all levels of care the moment that
they step foot in the door. Ensuring their health is the most important
component of this experience.
In the waiting room, Torch Aire-Recessed can allow for
continuous disinfection of the flow of air. Replacing a ceiling tile, the
Torch Aire-Recessed can disinfect all the air in a 2,100 ft3 room
once every ten minutes. Any air flowing through is being treated by the
concealed UV-C bulbs that kill any pathogen that enter. The device is
quiet, effective, and since the bulbs are hidden from view, can operate even in
the presence of patients and staff. The Torch Aire-Recessed also has
applications in the Patient and Operating Rooms where it can disinfect the air
of any organisms aerosolized during the actual surgical procedure.
Room disinfection devices, such as the Torch or Torch+, can
be used in operating rooms and patient rooms. For unique spaces with difficult
to reach areas, the Torch-Flex or Torch-Double Flex might be more applicable
with their adjustable arms that can fit between tight spaces or underneath
beds. While these are all portable options that can be shared between many
rooms, a more permanent and customized approach is to install Flashbar panels
directly into a space to provide maximum UV-C exposure with the flip of a
switch.
Relying on cleaners coming in to manually wipe down surfaces
and supplies is not enough. Ultraviolet light provides a fast, low-cost
approach to disinfecting areas that are often overlooked otherwise. Your
patients and staff will all experience the comforts of knowing their health is
a priority, and you are taking all measures to ensure the best care.
Click here to learn
more about ultraviolet light disinfection or attend our upcoming Ultraviolet Light 101
webinar on Tuesday, February 5th.
1. Shek, K. et al. Rate of contamination of
hospital privacy curtains on a burns and plastic surgery ward: a
cross-sectional study. Journal of Hospital Infection , Volume 96 , Issue
1 , 54 – 58.
2. Kramer et al. How Long Do Nosocomial Pathogens
Persist on Inanimate Surfaces? A Systematic Review. BMC Infectious Diseases.
2006.
