Winter is just around the corner, and that means being on high alert for all the winter viruses that come with it. Hospitals and care home settings are hotspots for infection at this time of year, but there is a way to be prepared. Regular mattress decontamination, using industry-compliant decontamination services, will help to prevent infection and control outbreaks. And it’s best to be prepared by starting your winter decontamination programme now!
What is a medical mattress?
Medical mattresses are specially designed for people who need to spend extended periods in bed. They prevent and relieve pressure from sores that are caused by lying in one position for too long. For example, people with limited mobility, who are ageing, have disabilities or who suffer from chronic illnesses. They are also used for anyone who needs to rest while recovering from surgery or injury.
What materials are used in a medical mattress?
Medical mattresses are made from a series of interlinked rectangular cells that are filled with air to provide a soft yet supportive base. These cells can be independently inflated and deflated to relieve pressure on different parts of the body. An air mattress, such as the Apex Medical Domus 4, is good for people at high risk of pressure sores as the air cells can automatically inflate and deflate to allow for continuous pressure redistribution. The Invacare Softform Premier Active 2 Hybrid Mattress combines a foam topped mattress with air cells underneath which can be inflated and deflated, making it ideal for low weight, frail or elderly users who might be at an increased risk of pressure sores.
Why does a medical mattress need to be decontaminated?
By their very nature, medical mattresses are designed for prolonged periods of use. This means they can often harbour harmful bacteria if not properly maintained. A mattress decontamination service is more than just a quick clean down – decontamination services use medical-grade disinfection systems to prevent the spread of infection, essential for any healthcare setting. Some mattresses, such as the Apex Medical Pro Auto, make the cleaning process even easier as the mattress easily detaches from its base.
The benefits of using decontamination services
1. Infection Control
The most critical reason for decontamination is to prevent the spread of infections within healthcare settings. Patients with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to infections. Contaminated mattresses can harbour dangerous bacteria, which can then be transmitted to patients, exacerbating their health conditions and prolonging their recovery.
2. Cross-Contamination
In busy healthcare environments, it’s easy for contaminants to transfer from one patient to another. When medical mattresses are not properly decontaminated, they can become a source of cross-contamination, further complicating the health of already vulnerable patients.
3. Extended lifespan of equipment
Regular decontamination extends the lifespan of medical mattresses. These mattresses are expensive pieces of equipment, and proper maintenance ensures they remain in good condition, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
4. Infection control compliance
By using certified decontamination services you can be certain that all procedures will adhere to healthcare regulations and guidance. This quality assurance is essential for meeting all necessary cleanliness requirements.
What is involved in Premiere Healthcare’s decontamination process?
Premiere Healthcare has a purpose-built decontamination facility in Tewkesbury. Team members use steam injection and the OTEX disinfection system to help prevent the spread of infection. They adhere to strict infection control guidelines and have been rigorously trained to prevent cross-infection at every stage of the process. Clients will receive a receipt at the end of the decontamination process to confirm that infection control guidelines have been followed.
Decontamination services can be used for specialist seating as well as medical mattresses. It is always best to have a regular programme of deep cleaning to minimise the risk of infections spreading. Take a look at our blog to find out more about the benefits of regularly using decontamination services to prevent the spread of infection in hospital, hospice or home-care settings.
How do I book a decontamination service for medical mattresses?
If you would like to have your medical mattresses deep cleaned this autumn, contact us today and speak to one of our decontamination team members or email your request to hello@premiere-healthcare.co.uk.
