Mrs. Ashlyn Datt1, Mr. Savneel Shivam Kumar1, Miss Alvina Lata1, Miss Sisilia Genaro1, Mrs. Timaima Ditukana1, Mrs. Ilisapeci Nabose1, Mr. Ravi Naidu1, Mrs. Ana Suka1, Mrs. Tracey Young- Sharma1, Mrs. Shammi Prasad1, Mrs. Antonette David1, Miss Anisi Kavoa1, Dr Alipate Vakamocea1, Ms. Alison Macintyre1, Mr. Matthew Richards1, Professor Kirsty Buising1, Professor Benjamin Howden1, Miss Donna Cameron1, Dr Aneley Strobel1
1Ministry Of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
Biography:
Name: Ashlyn Datt; Position: Infection Control Nurse; Organization: Ministry of Health and Medical Services, CWM Hospital
Work History: 2013-2014 Internship- CWM Hospital; 2014-2015 RN Lautoka Hospital; 2015- 2018 RN CWM Paying Ward; 2018-date IPC Nurse Cwm Hospital
Qualification: 2024- Foundation in Infection Prevention Control International ACIPC; 2018- Bachelor in Nursing Lateral Entry, Sangam School of Nursing; 2013- Diploma In Nursing, Fiji National University
Abstract:
Background
Colonial War Memorial (CWM) hospital has been battling carbapenem-resistant organisms (CRO) outbreaks. Studies suggest that an inadequately cleaned environment serves as a reservoir for CRO contributing to healthcare-associated infections (HAI). This case study describes interventions implemented for improving environmental cleaning and disinfection at CWMH.
Method
A new standard operating procedure for environmental cleaning and disinfection with a clear outline of activities and responsibilities was developed. Education and training of healthcare workers and contracted cleaning staff was conducted. Regular audits were undertaken using standardized environmental cleaning and terminal cleaning checklists. Fluorescent gel markers were introduced for audit purposes. Results of audits were provided to local staff and reported to the Infection Control Committee.
Results
A total of 15 training sessions were conducted and attended by 220 staff. New cleaning products were procured that replaced the previous 2-step cleaning practices with a 1-step procedure. A terminal cleaning checklist with fluorescent gel markers focusing on high-touch surface areas was used to ensure proper cleaning after the discharge of CRO cases. All wards were audited monthly. The initial audit result for ICU was 50% which increased to 70% in the second audit following feedback and further education for staff.
Conclusion
During the intervention period, the hospital upgraded cleaning practices, conducted training sessions and regular audits. The preliminary results showed an increase in cleaning compliance. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the enhanced environmental cleaning practices and other interventions is required to assess the impact in reducing the burden of CRO and HAI at CWM.