Five decontamination units have been purchased for Bates County Memorial Hospital and Family Care Clinics to enhance sanitization capabilities in the hospital and clinics.
From preparation to clean up, the process of treating a patient with COVID-19 or suspected of having COVID-19 is somewhat lengthy. Decontamination units act as a final step to the deep clean process, alleviating some of the burden on our staff during the pandemic – and beyond – while ensuring every surface is sanitized.
The process is also extremely safe for patients and staff: the decontamination units, made by AeroClave, emit a fine mist using Vital Oxide, a non-toxic, non-corrosive disinfectant registered by the EPA. After an activation and drying period, surfaces are disinfected and ready for the next patient. Originally developed as a carpet deodorizer, Vital Oxide eliminates the COVID-19 virus, as well as many other diseases, like Staphylococcus, MERS, SARS, Ebola, and other multi-drug resistant organisms.
“It takes about 23 minutes to sanitize the interior of an ambulance to be ready for the next call,” said Russell Whisenand, EMS Supervisor and Paramedic for BCMH. “With this state-of-the-art equipment, we will lower the risk of infection to our patients and staff.”
The portable AeroClave units are designed for ease of use and quick set up, disinfecting virtually any space in a relatively short amount of time. Purchased because of the pandemic, and currently prioritized for COVID-19 treatment areas, these decontamination units will remain an enhancement of the hospital’s sanitization procedures for years to come.
