EBME Forums Forums Free discussion Free discussion Decontamination.

We have a decontamination status section on the reverse of our 'fault report' labels. Most are filled in, but usually only with 'soap & water'! We do occasionally return items, or organise cleaning ourselves through the CSSD dept. However plans are underway to incorporate a decontamination area in our Equipment Library (for 'dirtier' items like infusion pumps & air-beds). In theory, to be used by our libary staff before sending to us!

AT DEWSBURY WE REFUSE TO ACCEPT EQUIPMENT WITHOUT A CERTIFICATE. IF YOU GET YOUR CHIEF EXECUTIVES' SUPPORT, USERS WILL COMPLY. WE CAN TAKE DISCIPLINARY ACTION AND SEND THE EQUIPMENT BACK, IF THE USER REFUSES TO GIVE US A CERTIFICATE. I WROTE TO ALL MANGERS AND ASKED THEM TO ENFORCE THE POLICY. NEED SUPPORT FROM YOUR CHIEF EXEC.
ALEX

That's incredible!
To have that sort of power....
I've always said that biomeds should be armed

It's remarkable what can be achieved if you're in bed with the right people !

So anyway, what happens to all the paperwork for decontamination once its in the department .... Is it filed (If so for how long) or is it thrown away. If it is thrown away I prefer the small job tag method with decontam status on the reverse. What type of equipment must carry a decontam tag .... everything from a syringe driver to an ophthalmoscope....?

[This message has been edited by Stunorris (edited 10 August 2000).]

Stu
If you follow NHS/MDA guidance everything should have a decontamination cert.
We let common sense prevail. If its filthy make them give you a decontamination certificate. Is there any point to filing it?

We're in the process of issuing a redesigned decontamination cert. / fault reporting form.
This has lots of nice simple tick boxes and most of the nures we showed the draft form to said they would be happier to fill it in (as opposed to the original example form most hospitals seem to have photocpoied).
This is being done with the backing of the infection control team and in conjunction with new mandatory infusion device training.
Only time will tell if it's been worth all the hard work.

Andrea - any chance of a copy to be shared as a download? We would of course - give you full credit, whilst removing all references to your trust.
Contact me by email if you prefer.
H.

Hi Stu
Although we do have a formal written decontamination policy it is generally disregarded by nursing / clinical staff - therefore we treat all equipment as 'Hostile' and decontaminate prior to working on it ~ a case of "better safe than sorry !"