A patient with an active case of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) was treated and released from the hospital. You are responsible to oversee the decontamination of the patient’s room. Explain why is it a concern if the beside roll-away table has dried-up sputum on it from a patient with an active case of TB? How should it be cleaned and disinfected?
a. Reason for concern:
b. How is it cleaned and disinfected?
a. Reason for concern: Dried-up sputum from a patient with an active case of TB poses a concern because Mycobacterium tuberculosis can survive for long periods outside the human body. The bacteria can remain active and potentially infective on surfaces for several weeks, increasing the risk of transmission to others who come into contact with these contaminated surfaces. Therefore, it is crucial to address the presence of dried-up sputum on the beside roll-away table promptly and properly.
b. Cleaning and disinfection process: To effectively clean and disinfect the beside roll-away table, follow these steps:
1. Preparation: Put on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable gloves, gown, and a mask, to protect yourself from any potential exposure to the pathogen. Ensure that the room is well-ventilated.
2. Cleaning: Begin by removing any visible debris or dried-up sputum from the table using a disposable paper towel or absorbent material. Place the used material in a plastic bag for disposal.
3. Detergent solution: Prepare a solution of water and a neutral detergent. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper dilution of the detergent.
4. Cleaning procedure: Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with the detergent solution. Thoroughly wipe the entire surface of the roll-away table, paying particular attention to areas that might have come into direct contact with the dried-up sputum.
5. Rinse: After cleaning, rinse the table surface with clean water to remove any residual detergent.
6. Disinfection: Prepare a solution of sodium hypochlorite (common household bleach) by mixing 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. Ensure that the bleach is suitable for disinfection and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate concentration.
7. Disinfection procedure: Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with the bleach solution. Wipe all surfaces of the roll-away table thoroughly, ensuring that the solution covers the entire area. Allow the bleach solution to remain in contact with the surfaces for the recommended contact time specified by the manufacturer.
8. Rinse again: After the recommended contact time, rinse the table surface thoroughly with clean water to remove any residual bleach.
9. Dry: Allow the roll-away table to air dry completely, ensuring that it is free from any moisture.
10. Disposal of PPE and waste: Safely dispose of the PPE and any waste generated during the cleaning and disinfection process according to proper infection control protocols.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean and disinfect the roll-away table, reducing the risk of transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for everyone involved.