HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, policy reviews and staff interviews, the infection control officer failed to ensure the required dwell time (time required for cleaning product to disinfect the surface being cleaned) was observed in one of one discharged patient room cleaning. This deficient practice has the potential to expose all patients and healthcare workers to infectious diseases.


Findings include:

- Staff C (Housekeeping Staff) observed on 2/15/2016 at 11:05 AM cleaning of a discharged patient's room revealed Staff C failed to ensure the Virex II 256 cleaning solution used while mopping the floor remained wet for the required 10 minutes.

Staff C (Housekeeping Staff) interviewed on 2/15/2016 at 11:15 AM revealed they were not aware of the dwell time of the cleaning product (Virex II 256) being used to clean and disinfect the hospital room floor.

Registered Nurse Staff D interviewed on 2/15/2016 at 11:59 AM acknowledged the floor did not remain wet for the required 10 minutes as directed by the manufacturer's instructions for the cleaning product Virex II 256.

Environmental Services Manager Staff B interviewed on 2/15/2016 at 12:20 PM revealed the housekeeping staff use microfiber mops making it difficult for the cleaning product to get the floor wet enough to allow for the required 10-minute dwell time that is required by the manufacturer's instructions. Staff B acknowledged he should ensure housekeeping staff follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the products they use.

Manufacturer's instructions for Virex II 256 reviewed on 2/15/2016 at 12:05 PM directed "...Apply solution to hard non-porous environmental surfaces. All surfaces must remain wet for 10 minutes. Wipe surface and let air dry.."