Blog, Care homes, Medical and healthcare
How portable hand wash units are becoming crucial during infection outbreaks – including coronavirus
Feb
Regular hand washing with soap and water “the most effective method”
Coronavirus, now named Covid-19, is rapidly spreading across the globe, making effective hand hygiene measures even more important than ever. Portable hand washing stations are becoming an important part of the strategy, according to a recent report on the Clinical Services Journal (CSJ) website.
Washing with soap and water is by far the most effective way of controlling the spread of the infection says the article on the grounds that NHS advice “…warns about any reliance on alcohol hand gels as they don’t kill the virus”.
Hand washing should occur as a highest priority, particularly at certain times, notably
“Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.”
Deploying handwash stations at the point of need
The other crucial part of the equation is for hand washing facilities to be available where they’re actually needed. Which is why hospitals around the UK are now making effective use of portable units.
Perhaps the highest profile example is Arrowe Park Hospital in the Wirral, which is managing the quarantine of people recently flown back from China. The Department of Health and Social Care designated it an “isolation” facility in a coronavirus statement a few days ago.
The Hospital recently purchased three MediWash portable handwash units (shown above). “Two are being used in the residential isolation block and the other in the ‘pod’ that is being used to test for the virus” advises the article. The infection control aspect is greatly enhanced by the video screen hand washing instructions and the automatic sensor which activates the flow of water with the need to touch any taps.
The MediWash has also been recently supplied to Leicester Royal Infirmary, and the Royal Wolverhampton Hospital, with five Stallette portable units (shown below) reportedly going to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
Isolation pods being set up
Hospitals in the UK have been required to set up isolation booths, in which patients can be situated if they are suspected to have coronavirus.
“Isolation ‘pods’ have emerged at hospitals across England as the country responds to the threat of further infection.”
Portable Sinks Can Help With Infection Outbreaks Such As Corona Virus Now Named “COVID-19” By World Health Organisation »
Teal Task Force: quickly set up hand wash units at entrances to infected wards
The Teal Task Force is a unique fast response service available in the UK to deliver high quality hot water hand washing facilities on a next working day basis.
Fast delivery and setup – every Hygienius MediWash is sited and set up by trained TEAL Task Force staff. Each unit is delivered complete with a generous supply of liquid soap and paper towels.