Q:
What are the proper infection control measures for linen handling?
A:
To maintain infection control, follow these best practices:
- Wear Appropriate PPE: Always wear gloves, and additional personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed, when handling soiled linen.
- Avoid Contact with the Body: Carry both soiled and clean linen away from your body to minimize contamination risk.
- Prevent Contamination Spread: Do not shake soiled linen. Instead, roll it carefully to prevent further contamination.
- Use Proper Disposal Methods: Place soiled linen in a designated bag immediately. Never place soiled linen on the floor or other surfaces.
- Treat Unused Linen as Soiled: If clean linen is brought into a resident’s room but not used, it must be considered soiled and laundered before its next use.
- Practice Hand Hygiene: Perform hand hygiene immediately after handling soiled linen and before handling clean linen to prevent cross-contamination.
Written by:
Candace Lord, LPN, RAC-CT
Clinical Consultant
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