As healthcare workers, we all know the importance of disinfecting medical equipment and surfaces to prevent the spread of infections. However, inadequate disinfection can have serious consequences for both patient safety and financial costs.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) affect an estimated 1 in 31 hospital patients and result in tens of thousands of deaths each year. These infections not only pose a threat to patient health and safety, but they also come at a significant financial cost. In fact, the CDC estimates that the annual cost of HAIs in the U.S. ranges from $28 billion to $45 billion.
One of the primary contributors to HAIs is inadequate and incomplete disinfection. Medical facilities are home to a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can survive on surfaces for days or even weeks. Without proper disinfection, these pathogens can spread from one patient to another, increasing the risk of infections.
To combat this risk, it's important for healthcare workers and administration to understand the best practices for disinfecting medical equipment and surfaces. This includes using specific disinfectants that are effective against a wide range of pathogens and following proper cleaning protocols.
In recent years, a new technology has emerged that can greatly improve the overall disinfection efficacy in medical facilities: hypochlorous dry fog. This technology uses a natural disinfectant that is safe for patients, healthcare workers, and the environment, yet highly effective against a wide range of pathogens. When released into a room, the hypochlorous dry fog can reach areas that are difficult to clean with traditional methods, such as vents, crevices, and fabrics. This helps to ensure that all surfaces in the room are thoroughly disinfected. By incorporating hypochlorous dry fog into their disinfection protocols, healthcare facilities can greatly reduce the risk of HAIs and improve patient safety.
Read MoreReal-life examples of the consequences of inadequate disinfecting in healthcare settings are numerous. In one hospital, inadequate disinfection of endoscopes led to the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, resulting in patient infections and deaths. In another facility, inadequate disinfection of surgical instruments led to patient infections and a costly lawsuit and litigations.
When patients are infected with HAIs, they may choose to pursue legal action against the healthcare facility. This can result in costly lawsuits, damages, and a loss of reputation. In addition, inadequate disinfection can also lead to fines and penalties from regulatory agencies. It's crucial for healthcare workers and administration to prioritize proper disinfection protocols to not only prevent the spread of infections but also to avoid the costly consequences of litigation.