HHC Health & Home Care Clinical Policy And

HHC HEALTH & HOME CARE Section: 13-9
Infection Control: Disinfection of Linen In The Home __RN __HHA
PURPOSE:
To provide a safe means of handling and laundering
contaminated linen and clothing.
CONSIDERATIONS:
1. Soiled linen is a possible source of infection.
a. Soiled linen should be identified and not
combined with other laundry.
b. Agitation of linen promotes airborne
contamination. Thus, linen should be handled
with a minimum of agitation.
c. Never place soiled linen on the floor or any
clean surfaces.
d. Soiled linen should be handled as little as
possible.
e. Clinical staff handling contaminated laundry
should wear gloves and other personal
protective equipment, as appropriate.
2. Soiled linens and clothing, including those used by
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B
virus (HBV)-positive individuals, can be safely
laundered in the family washer using detergent and
the hot-water cycle. Additional antibacterial activity
is achieved using the dryer.
3. If 1 cup of bleach can be added to items soiled with
blood and body fluids, it is preferred.
EQUIPMENT:
Large impervious bag
Washing machine
Detergent
Household bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite) as needed
Gloves
Disposable apron
PROCEDURE:
1. Adhere to Universal Precautions.
2. Explain procedure to patient/caregiver.
3. If laundry area is not adjacent to patient care area,
carry soiled linen to laundry area bagged in an
impervious bag.
4. Soiled linens and clothing should be washed in a
mechanical washing machine with laundry detergent
and the warmest water appropriate for the fabric.
5. Add 1 cup of bleach to washer if linens/clothing can
be bleached.
AFTER CARE:
1. Document in patient's record:
a. Linen and clothing laundered, including method.
b. Instructions given to patient/caregiver.
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