Management of In-patients with Loose Stools ... - NHS Lanarkshire

Note: Completion
of Review
NHS Lanarkshire
Health Protection Committee
SECTION E 1 - Management of In-patients with
Loose Stools: Gastrointestinal Outbreak
E 28
Section E1
Effective
From
Sep 2010
Replaces Jun 2010
Pages 28 of 31
Review Date Dec 2012
Equipment: Where possible single patient equipment is used and communal patient equipment avoided. All reusable equipment is decontaminated after
use. There are sufficient other sundries on the ward to enable the control measures to be implemented.
Linen: Whilst the ward remains closed, categorise all discarded linen as ‘foul/infected’
Spillages: All faecal and vomit spillages are decontaminated by staff wearing appropriate PPE. The spillage is removed with paper towels, and then the
area is decontaminated with 1000ppm of a chlorine releasing agent. All waste arising is discarded as clinical waste. PPE is then removed and hands
washed with liquid soap and warm water.
Advice and Guidance: HCWs have access to, and follow NHSL guidance on:
The decontamination of body fluid spills, equipment, soft furnishings (Section I and ward Cleaning Schedules)
If uniform becomes contaminated HCW must complete a DATIX and send uniform to laundry for cleaning.
Today the ICT has made an assessment of the outbreak and the continuing need for ward closure. The earliest possible date for reopening has been
communicated to the clinical team, to bed management staff and those listed in the Outbreak policy.
In preparation for reopening – empty beds have been cleaned and left unmade. Consider pre-booking a terminal clean.
Before reopening – a terminal clean has been performed following ICT recommendation and following the hospital procedure.
It is the Senior Charge Nurse/Deputy’s responsibility to ensure that all infection control measures are adhered to and that a DATIXhas been completed
at the end of the outbreak.
Issues Reason Action taken Signature Date