Whether working as a certified home health aide, medical assistant, or similar job in the healthcare field, maintaining cleanliness is essential. It is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of infection and disease for yourself and your patients. Maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout your career in healthcare by adhering to guidelines from your superiors as well as these tips below:

Wash Your Hands

Wash your hands thoroughly after eating, using the restroom and before and after any procedure. Hand washing is also necessary after being in contact with the patient, blood and other bodily fluids, and after handling medical equipment. The CDC is an excellent hand washing resource for additional information.

Wear Gloves, Face Protection, & Gowns

Wear gloves before handling bodily fluids and excretions, as well as a mask, eye protector, and gown during procedures to protect yourself. Change your gloves and other protective gear often, such as before working with a new patient.

Clean Reusable Equipment

Ensure all non-reusable equipment is properly disposed of and reusable equipment is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before working with another patient. Follow the hospital’s procedures for routine cleaning if applicable, and wear a disposable plastic apron and household-grade gloves if you are working as a certified home health aide. Use the appropriate accessories to protect your eyes, nose, and mouth when you are cleaning equipment if splashing is a potential issue.

Keep “High-Touch” Areas Clean

Regularly clean certain areas, such as doorknobs, bed rails, remote controls, and phones with the appropriate products. These areas usually have the most bacteria and germs because they are touched often. Stay clean by wearing gloves whenever possible.

Big Apple Training has helped people achieve rewarding careers in healthcare for over 20 years. Medical training facilities are located in White Plains and Bronx, NY, for student convenience and feature courses for certified nurse assistants, certified home health aides, and EKG technicians among numerous other options. Call (914) 437-7373 for the White Plains location or (718) 231-3600 for the Bronx location to start your career in healthcare. For a list of courses, visit the website.