light switch, sink faucet handle, stethoscope, soap dispenser,
and telephone). A consistent surface area was sampled for
each surface. A composite cleanliness score was calculated
on the basis of the percentage of surfaces that were below
a cutoff point of 250 relative light units (RLUs)
The amount of housekeeper time spent cleaning a room
was documented through use of an automated system which
required personnel to document by telephone when they
arrived at the room and when room cleaning was complete.
Researchers estimated the cleaning effectiveness rate (as
measured by ATP detection) for each housekeeper and then
compared the rate of effectiveness of each housekeeper to
all other housekeepers. Analysis of variance was used to
compare the efficiency of cleaning (average time to clean
a room) between housekeepers, and pairwise comparisons
were performed. The association between effectiveness and
efficiency was analyzed by plotting the median time to clean
hospital rooms versus the median percentage of surfaces
graded as clean per housekeeper.
Seventeen housekeepers (labeled A–O) performed routine
terminal cleaning of 292 hospital rooms at patient discharge.
Housekeeper cleaning effectiveness ranged from 46 percent
to 79 percent. Pairwise comparisons placed housekeepers
into three groups. Housekeepers in group 1 (A–G) had similar
rates of cleaning effectiveness compared with one another
but were statistically less effective than the more effective
housekeepers in group 3 (K–Q). Housekeepers in group
2 (H–J) were of intermediate effectiveness. The average
time to clean a room for the 17 housekeepers ranged from
Continued from page 16
before entering the room to clean. Additionally, establishing
a cleaning schedule for those items used less frequently that
clearly outlines how, when and the person responsible for
cleaning them is key. Initial training and annual competencies,
along with supplementary education when new products
or equipment are introduced are also vital components
for success.”
When it comes to addressing an optimal turnover time,
AORN does not have a recommendation on room turnover
time, according to deKay. “In our literature search there was
no research found on optimal turnover time and additionally
the items needing disinfected can vary by procedure, patient
and facility,” she says. “AORN does, however, recommend
that items used during patient care should be cleaned and
disinfected between patients and provides a list of what
those items may be. Additionally, the floor and walls should
be cleaned and disinfected if visibly soiled and trash and linen
should be removed from room.”
According to studies, OR turnover times have ranged
from 25 minutes to up to 90 minutes, but it is important to
remember that cleaning and disinfection is only a fraction of
the complete turnover process. Twenty-five to 30 minutes
seems to be the average, depending on the complexity of
the case, and environmental services personnel often find
themselves hurrying through their cleaning tasks.
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www.healthcarehygienemagazine.com • march 2020
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