HHC Health & Home Care Clinical Policy And

HHC HEALTH & HOME CARE Section: 13-7
Infection Control: Disinfection of Equipment And Instruments Using Disinfecting Agents __RN
PURPOSE:
To destroy disease causing microorganisms through the
use of a disinfecting agent.
CONSIDERATIONS:
1. According to agency practice, follow directions
supplied with the disinfecting agent.
2. Safety precautions should be used to prevent
accidental poisoning, particularly if there are
children or pets in the home.
3. Instruments must be handled with care to avoid
injuries. Instruments may not overlap or be piled in
basin or container.
4. Cleaning following Cleaning of Equipment and
Instruments, No. 14.06 must precede disinfection.
EQUIPMENT:
Disinfectant
Basin
Soap/detergent
Paper towels
Gloves
PROCEDURE:
1. Adhere to Universal Precautions.
2. Explain procedure to patient/caregiver.
3. Remove blood and exudates by cleaning with soap
and water using friction, then rinsing with water
before disinfecting.
4. Prepare disinfecting solution in basin according to
directions. (See Appendix A –Section 14-17.)
5. Submerge items in solution for specified length of
time. (See Appendix A – Section 14-17.)
6. Remove disinfected items from basin.
7. Air dry or dry with paper towels before storing.
8. Store in clean, dry, dust-free environment, e.g.,
plastic, Ziploc bag, or lidded jar.
9. Discard solutions into toilet, washbasin with soap
and water, rinse and dry with paper towels.
AFTER CARE:
1. Document in patient's record:
a. Date, time, and name of person performing
procedure, if applicable.
b. Equipment was tested and approved for use, if
applicable.
c. Instructions given to patient/caregiver.
2. Follow preventive maintenance policy of agency.
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