Effective hygiene despite staff shortages: How detergents in washer-disinfectors can help
Their use in washer-disinfectors is optional. But in light of staff shortages in hospitals and care facilities especially, they are particularly effective: detergents. And that is why they are recommended by the experts from MEIKO.
Staff shortages in hospitals and care facilities are a growing problem that places an ever greater burden on daily care. This affects not only direct interactions with patients, but also the upholding of basic hygiene standards. One example is the emptying and cleaning of bedpans, which is often neglected when nursing staff is overtasked. These care utensils, which collect excrements of bedridden patients, can remain unemptied for longer periods of time, which results in encrustation and an increased risk of infection.
Washer-disinfectors for improved hygiene
One effective way to counteract this is by using state-of-the-art washer-disinfectors. ‘In our washer-disinfectors, thermal disinfection is performed at temperatures above 80 °C. This not only reliably eliminates pathogens, but our TopLine M2 even achieves fully virudical efficacy. We also recommend using detergents that are capable of breaking down tough residues, such as dried excrements,’ says Marcus Danner, Market Development Manager Germany-Austria-Switzerland for MEIKO Cleaning and Disinfection Technology.
The washer-disinfectors from MEIKO optionally offer a combination of chemical cleaning and thermal disinfection. With the latest model, the TopLine M2, the detergent dosing unit can also be retrofitted. ‘This mitigates hygienic risks, even if things should be left unattended for longer periods,’ emphasizes Marcus Danner.
Detergents in washer-disinfectors
Detergents reinforce mechanical cleaning and help to remove especially tough residues before disinfection. The DOYEN products approved by MEIKO are tailored to the technology, the washware and the requirements of medical facilities. ‘We have verified compatibility of the products with our appliances in accordance with the new Medical Device Regulation, or MDR for short,’ states Marcus Danner.
Additional technologies such as automatic load detection in the TopLine M2 model, contact-free door opening and a flexibly adjustable A0 value make the cleaning and disinfection process in MEIKO washer-disinfectors safer and more efficient for both staff and patients.
Bottom line
The combination of thermal disinfection and detergents in washer-disinfectors is a crucial measure for maintaining high hygiene standards – especially in times of staff shortages. That can help take the burden off nursing staff while minimising the risk of infection in hospitals and care homes. Facilities that upgrade their washer-disinfectors accordingly or use state-of-the-art models benefit from more effective, thorough cleaning, which can both counteract staff shortages and increase patient safety. This is a step that pays off not only in terms of hygiene, but also from a business perspective by preventing infections and absences over the long term.