Germs Don’t Discharge

How to Maintain Hygiene Between Patients.
By Vitalcare | www.vitalcare.co.ke | info@vitalcare.co.ke | 0720981198 | 0735879701.

In healthcare settings, patients may be discharged but germs often are not. From high-touch surfaces to shared medical equipment, pathogens can linger long after a patient leaves. That’s why maintaining strict hygiene protocols between patient visits is not just a best practice, it’s a necessity.

The Invisible Risk

Many infections in hospitals and clinics aren’t caused by new admissions, but by germs left behind. MRSA, C. difficile, norovirus, and other harmful microorganisms can survive on surfaces for hours or even days. Without proper hygiene, the next patient inherits more than just a bed — they inherit a health risk.

Key Strategies for Hygiene Between Patients

1. Standardized Cleaning Protocols

Each discharge should trigger a rigorous, checklist-based cleaning routine. From changing linens to disinfecting bed rails, call buttons, IV stands, and side tables — no corner should be skipped.

2. Focus on High-Touch Areas

Hands spread more germs than most realize. Door handles, faucets, light switches, monitor buttons, and chair armrests should be prioritized during every cleaning cycle.

3. Use the Right Disinfectants

Not all cleaning agents are created equal. Use hospital-grade disinfectants approved by health authorities, and always follow proper contact time for maximum germ kill.

4. Proper PPE Use by Staff

Staff should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during cleaning and change gloves and gowns between rooms to avoid cross-contamination.

5. Disinfect Shared Equipment

Stethoscopes, BP machines, thermometers, and pulse oximeters must be disinfected after each use. Shared devices can become silent carriers of infection.

6. Air Quality Matters Too

Poor ventilation can spread airborne germs. Ensure proper air filtration systems are in place and functioning, especially in isolation or procedure rooms.

7. Staff Training & Auditing

Training staff on infection prevention practices is critical. Regular audits help maintain standards and identify gaps before they become hazards.

Clean Room, Safe Patient

At Vitalcare, we believe that hygiene is more than a duty — it’s a commitment to patient safety. Germs don’t leave on discharge, so our vigilance must stay. Let’s keep every room ready for healing, not harm.