An ambulance infection prevention protocol following the transfer of a patient with a highly contagious disease should include: thorough cleaning and disinfection of the entire ambulance interior, proper disposal of contaminated waste, complete personal protective equipment (PPE) usage by healthcare providers during cleaning, and detailed documentation of the cleaning process; with specific focus on high-touch surfaces, air ventilation, and appropriate waste management practices depending on the specific contagious disease involved.
Key components of the protocol:
- Immediate PPE usage:
- All healthcare providers involved in the cleaning process should wear appropriate PPE including gowns, gloves, masks, and eye protection, depending on the transmission route of the disease.
- Patient compartment cleaning:
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces within the patient compartment, including stretcher, seatbelts, handrails, headrests, and any medical equipment used during transport.
- Use dedicated cleaning solutions appropriate for the specific pathogen, following manufacturer instructions.
- High-touch surface focus:
- Pay particular attention to high-touch surfaces like door handles, control panel buttons, light switches, and medical device surfaces.
- Waste management:
- Properly dispose of all contaminated waste, including used PPE, linens, and medical supplies, in biohazard bags according to facility protocols.
- Air ventilation:
- Open windows and doors to maximize air circulation within the ambulance to help disperse airborne pathogens.
- Cleaning process documentation:
- Maintain detailed records of the cleaning process, including the date, time, cleaning agents used, and personnel involved.
Specific considerations based on disease type:
- Airborne diseases (e.g., measles, tuberculosis):Utilize HEPA filtration systems for air purification and consider dedicated airborne isolation ambulances if available.
- Droplet diseases (e.g., influenza, COVID-19):Focus on thorough cleaning of surfaces where droplets may settle and ensure proper mask usage by staff.
- Contact precautions (e.g., MRSA, C. difficile):Pay extra attention to cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces that could be contaminated by direct contact with the patient.
Important points to remember:
Regular review and updates:The infection prevention protocol should be regularly reviewed and updated based on current guidelines and emerging infectious diseases.
Training:All ambulance staff should be adequately trained in infection control practices and specific protocols for handling highly contagious diseases.
Communication:Clearly communicate with receiving healthcare facilities regarding the patient’s infectious disease status to facilitate appropriate isolation measures.
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Ambulance IPC After Transfer of a Highly Infectious Patient
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