Schneck Medical Center Implements the Power of Ultraviolet Technology Against Hospital Infections

Schneck Medical Center, a non-profit acute-care facility located in Seymour, Ind., is one of the first hospitals in Indiana to adopt the Clorox Healthcare Optimum-UVTM System, adding an extra innovative precaution to its existing infection control processes.

The Clorox HealthcareTM Optimum-UVTM System utilizes UV-C, the highest-energy form of ultraviolet light, to kill germs that pose a threat to the healthcare environment. The UV light inactivates the germs' DNA, rendering them harmless and unable to replicate. The system is effective against a range of dangerous germs, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and C. diff (Clostridium difficile) spores, in just five minutes.
 
"Patient safety is a top priority at Schneck," said infection preventionist Anita Reecer, RN, BSN. "We chose a UV device as an added measure to help us prevent healthcare-associated infections and ensure the safest possible environment of care for our patients, staff, and visitors. The device is able to treat areas that are difficult to clean manually, leaving no crevice unturned."

Schneck uses the system to disinfect our surgical suites, inpatient and outpatient areas. The device is run after the environmental services team thoroughly cleans and disinfects each room with a surface disinfectant. The UV device is then used to supplement these efforts, adding a final layer of protection. In a typical patient room, the device is placed on both sides of the patient bed and turned on for five minutes in each position. It's also placed in the patient bathroom for another five minute cycle.

"Cleaning and disinfection plays a crucial role in infection prevention and with germs such as C. diff able to survive on surfaces for months at a time, we felt it was important to implement even more comprehensive cleaning procedures as part of our daily cleaning practices," said Reecer. "We've found that the Clorox Healthcare Optimum-UVTM System provides an effective, high-quality and easy to use solution that has helped achieve reductions to our already low infection rates."

The adoption of the UV device has not only shown initial reductions in infection rates, but also gives patient and staff peace of mind that their safety is what is most important to Schneck.

Source: Clorox Healthcare