(b) Washing hands before handling clean linen.
(c)
Keeping linen from touching floor or any other known dirty surface.
(d) Keeping linen from touching uniform.
(2) Dirty or soiled linen. Dirty linen is linen that has been used and maybe
contaminated with blood, urine, feces, and so forth. Store dirty linen in the "dirty" utility
room. Prevent the spread of contamination by following these rules.
(a)
Do not shake or toss dirty linens.
(b) Do not allow uniforms to come into contact with dirty linens.
(c) Remove dirty linen from the area using procedures established by
local standing operating procedures (SOP).
f. Store and Handle Equipment and Supplies Properly.
(1)
Store clean and dirty equipment and supplies in separate areas.
(2) Cleanse dirty equipment thoroughly before placing with clean equipment
for reuse by another patient.
(3)
Use disposable equipment whenever possible.
(4)
Use separate disposable items for each patient.
g. Dispose of Waste Materials.
(1) Uncontaminated trash. Uncontaminated trash results from normal living
routine of patients. Uncontaminated trash requires no special handling. Remove all
unconsumed food items from patient care areas as soon as possible after patients have
finished eating.
(2) Contaminated trash. Contaminated trash results from contamination
with bodily secretions and/or excretions of the patient. Contaminated trash requires
special handling.
(a) Seal each bag according to local SOP before removing from
patient's bedside.
(b) Place each bag in specific area or container designated and
labeled "contaminated trash."
(c)
Remove each bag from the ward or clinic frequently according to
the local SOP.
MD0540
2-7