Published in 2017
AORN Study on Garment Cleaning Regularity
Purpose
Health Care Workers’ Use and Cleaning of X-Ray Aprons and Thyroid Shields
The abstract “Health Care Workers’ Use and Cleaning of X-Ray Aprons and Thyroid Shields” aimed to assess the use and cleaning practices of X-ray aprons and thyroid shields among health care workers in rural hospital systems, with a specific focus on potential infection risks and adherence to manufacturers’ recommendations.
For the full study, click here.
Author
Hope Honigsberg BSN, RN, CNOR
Author
Karen Gabel Speroni PhD, MHSA, BSN, RN
Author
Amy Stafford DNP, MSN, RN, CMSRN
Author
Anna Fishback BSN, RN
Findings Summary
Surveying 173 health care workers, predominantly registered nurses in surgical settings, the study found that 78% reported wearing soiled protective gear and 30.1% noted thyroid shield odors. Notably, 48% reported never spot-cleaning, and 21.4% of aprons or shields were never cleaned in accordance with standard departmental procedures. The study identified potential risks of bacterial contamination, emphasizing the need for evidence-based guidelines and the need for a best practice solution.
83 out of 173 Clinicians Awknowledged Garments are Never Cleaned
135 out of 173 Clinicians Report Wearing Soiled X-ray Garments
The Solution
RCS Recommendation
The research highlights the need to raise the standard of care in hospitals, particularly using evidence-based processes.
With over a decade of field research, we can confidently report that developing a process may have been too cumbersome for healthcare professionals to maintain on a consistent basis. With the irregularity illustrated in this study, it’s important to consider scheduled deep cleanings and disinfection of lead garments for patient and staff safety and facility risk mitigation.
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$164,738 of Total Savings
Full Garment Lifecycle Solution
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