Staying Healthy in Child Care - National Health and Medical ...

the paper and do not reach the table at all. The paper is removed in the middle of the
nappy change, before the child’s clean clothes are put on, the paper and the germs are
then put in the bin. Any paper can be used for this; paper towel is easy to use but can be
expensive, greaseproof paper is another alternative. A popular barrier is large sheets of
computer paper.
Gloves
Gloves should be worn when changing dirty nappies because there are always billions of
germs in faeces. Wearing gloves for wet nappies is not essential because germs are not
usually found in urine, but you may choose to use them. However, you should wear
gloves for all nappy changes if your hands have any cuts or cracked skin. It is also wise to
wear gloves for all nappy changes if you are pregnant (refer CMV page 122).
Cleaning the child
Damp paper towels, premoistened towelettes or damp cloths (‘bottom cloths’) may be
used to clean the child. However, each towel must be removed immediately after use and
put in the bin or put aside for washing. Wet the towels with water from the tap or poured
from bottles. Don’t use recycled water from a bowl. If you use bottom cloths, wash these
in hot water and never mix bottom cloths and face cloths in the same wash.
Cleaning the nappy change table
Try to have at least two change surfaces for each day. A vinyl sheet over the change mat
can be the morning surface. Use this method to help keep the nappy change table clean.
• After each change, wash the table (mat) well with detergent and warm water. Use
paper towel or a piece of cloth to rub the surface. Put the paper towel in the bin or
the cloth aside for washing after each change. There will be many germs on this
cloth; it cannot be used again until it has been washed. These may be washed with
the bottom cloths.
• If faecal matter spills onto the change table (mat) clean with detergent and warm
water, then leave to dry.
• Thoroughly clean the surface with detergent at the end of a nappy changing
session and at the end of the day. Wipe the area with detergent and warm water
and leave to dry.
• Remove the morning change mat or vinyl sheet and leave to dry, preferably
outside in the sun. Use the fresh mat for the afternoon.
• Wash your hands.
Mattresses and covers used on the nappy change table need to be smooth and in good
condition because germs can survive in cracks, holes, creases, pleats, folds or seams.
Toilet-training
• Ask parents to supply a clean change of clothing.
• Place soiled clothes in a plastic bag for parents to take home at the end of the day.
Soiled clothes will not be rinsed or washed at the centre. (Explain to parents that
washing soiled clothes at the centre can spread germs.)
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Draft for Public Consultation