Kingsbridge Private Hospital, Belfast - 20 January 2012

7.0 Patient Linen
STANDARD 3.0
PATIENT LINEN
Storage of clean linen; handling and storage of used linen; ward/
department laundry facilities.
7.1 Management of Linen
Patient Linen
Storage of clean linen 90
Storage of used linen 91
Laundry facilities
N/A
Average Score 91
Staff achieved an overall compliant score in this standard.
The bed linen store was clean neat and tidy, however in the store used
for staff scrubs the inspectors noted that some scrub suits were lying
on the floor. In the clean decontamination room off the theatre, a
supply of exposed clean sheets was observed on a trolley, these
sheets should be stored covered or in a linen cupboard to prevent
exposure to airborne contamination.
The used linen baskets in the patient changing areas were made of
wicker and therefore could not be effectively cleaned, and the cloth
bags used as liners were ripped and damaged. Used linen awaiting
collection was stored in a designated area and bags were not over
filled.
Staff advised inspectors that personal protective equipment (PPE) is
used when handling soiled/contaminated linen and that theatre
uniforms are reprocessed by a recognised external laundry contractor.
Recommendations
5. The hospital should ensure that clean linen is stored in a
designated area which is fit for purpose.
6. Equipment used for the storage of used linen should be
cleanable and fit for purpose.
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