How cleaning machines are humanising patient care

The primary goal of healthcare hygiene is to prevent healthcare-associated infections. (HCAIs). HCAIs pose a serious risk to patients, staff and visitors and cause significant costs, both financial and in reputation for healthcare providers.

From patient rooms to corridors, every surface plays a crucial role in infection prevention. Floors are often overlooked, but recent research shows that medical staff carry germs around facilities via the sole of their shoes, including into sensitive areas.

Traditionally, mops and standard vacuums have been the go-to tool for floor cleaning, but it’s time to consider how the newer technology can improve patient outcomes.

Why it’s time to drop the mop

Mops spread germs rather than eliminating them. As we drag a dirty mop across the floor, we inadvertently transfer pathogens from one area to another and the water in the bucket quickly becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

Let’s shine a spotlight on Nilfisk floor scrubbers

Nilfisk scrubber dryers make a big difference in healthcare environments.

Improve hygiene: Nilfisk scrubbers use clean water and detergent to scrub floors thoroughly. Unlike mops, they don’t spread contaminants. The scrubbing action lifts dirt, grime, and bacteria, leaving surfaces truly clean.

Reduce cross contamination: Nilfisk scrubbers have separate tanks for clean solution and waste water. As they move, they pick up dirt and immediately deposit it into the dirty water tank. No more back-and-forth contamination.

Efficiency boost: Nilfisk scrubbers cover more ground in less time — at least 4 x faster. Their rotating brushes or pads agitate the surface, ensuring deep cleaning without manual effort. Staff resources can be allocated more effectively.

Nilfisk SC500 Scrubber/Dryer

The SC500 walk-behind scrubber/dryer has unique features to make it even more efficient:

Smartflow™: automatically adjusts flow of water/detergent based on speed for consistent cleaning.

EcoFlex™: seamlessly provides a power and detergent boost where it is needed most and water-only or light cleaning in less soiled areas, to drive down total cleaning costs.

SilentTech™: reduces sound level from 65dB(A) to 60dB(A) in silent mode to limit disturbance to patients.

Nilfisk Liberty SC50 Autonomous Scrubber/Dryer

The latest technology in floor cleaning, Nilfisk Liberty SC50 utilises robotics to multiply healthcare cleaning workforces. Features include:

Efficiency: while the Liberty SC50 labours on the floors, staff can focus on sanitising high contact areas, and other important tasks that improve the hygiene of the facility.

Consistent cleaning standards: Provides the same quality every time, so floors are kept clean, safe and dry.

Proof of clean: Make data-driven cleaning decisions.

Let’s clear the air on standard vacuums

Vacuum cleaners play a crucial role in maintaining clean floors by removing dirt and debris. However, they can also disturb pathogens hidden on the floor or in carpet. If the vacuum’s filtration system is inadequate, these pathogens may become airborne, impacting air quality.

Breathe easy with Nilfisk HEPA-filtered vacuums

Nilfisk HEPA-filtered vacuums feature a superior HEPA H13 filter efficiency that complies with the EN1822 standard. As air is drawn into the vacuum it is expelled through the filter and removes at least 99.95% of particles, of 0.3 microns in diameter.

Nilfisk GD930 PRO HEPA S2 Vacuum

The GD930 PRO HEPA S2 is perfect for Healthcare:

Superior filtration: Outstanding performance with a 5x larger HEPA H13 filter for increased lifespan. Fleece bags improve filtration by up to 10% over normal paper bags.

Quiet operation: World-class low sound with a sound pressure level of 52dB(A), reducing to 48dB(A) in quiet mode.

Long lifespan: Built with a durable steel container and detachable cord, to save on total overall costs and reduce environmental waste.

Smart efficiency: Increase productivity with a very high filling capacity 15L container/dust bag, quick-start cord release, fast access HEPA filter, and convenient lid storage.

Safety and ergonomics: Avoid trip and fall accidents with the highly visible orange cable. The lightweight aluminium accessories, rubber grip ensures comfortable handling.

For more on the GD930 and other Nilfisk products, visit https://www.nilfisk.com/en-au/campaigns/gd930-product-launch-ec/

Images: Supplied.