will," says Ms. Nucci. "This
is a wakeup call for outpa-
tient facilities to make sure
their cleaning protocols
align with CDC guidance,
including the use of EPA-
approved cleaning products
and a clear process for per-
forming surface disinfec-
tion."
Ms. Nucci expects the
CDC to increase its over-
sight of surface disinfec-
tion processes.
"Regulatory agencies and patient advocacy groups may require you to
have a structured environmental cleaning program in place," says Ms.
Nucci. "I think we're going to see many more checks and balances."
That's why you should revisit your surface cleaning protocols now
— before case volumes pick up again. To prepare and comply with
surface disinfection requirements, Ms. Nucci recommends looking to
CDC and AORN guidelines for the most effective products and prac-
tices.
To take surface disinfection a step further, consider incorporating
high-tech whole room disinfection solutions as an adjunct to your
manual processes. Research has shown that ultraviolet (UVC) light
technology can kill pathogens on OR surfaces, including multidrug-
resistant superbugs. There are several available options in portable
UVC equipment designed to enhance traditional disinfection prac-
tices. Another option is hydrogen peroxide vapor disinfection, which
has already seen some success in disinfecting entire hospital wards
4 6 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • M A Y 2 0 2 0
• EVERY INCH Monitor your team's performance by ensuring they treat
high-touch areas between every case.