Reply To: PPE and ABHR placement in residents rooms

[Luis Mata Mendez]

Hi Leasa,

According to the ACSQHC guidelines.
Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) must be available inside each room, affixed to mobile work trolleys (e.g., medication and dressing trolleys), and in high-traffic areas (e.g., nurse’s station, pan room and resident room entrances—one dispenser for every two rooms, depending on accessibility, would be appropriate). Public areas, such as dining rooms and foyers/lounges, should also have dispensers.
In areas with residents experiencing dementia, cognitive decline, or mental illnesses, a risk assessment must be conducted (small personal bottles carried by healthcare workers (HCWs) may be an option).
Some considerations:
Product usage signs should be clearly visible and laminated.
ABHR dispensers must NOT be placed next to sinks, as this can cause confusion for some HCWs who may mistakenly think they need to rinse their hands with water after using the ABHR.
ABHR dispensers should be located at a height of between 92 cm and 122 cm above the floor (avoid placing them at eye level).
Regarding hand soap and paper towels, they must be within arm’s reach of sinks. Additionally, moisturising lotion dispensers are also needed.

I hope this helps to give you a brief overview of the topic.

Regards,

Luis