firstScan Core Policies 2

Infection control policy

• What seems a simple policy is one of the most important. We must provide a clean and safe environment for our customers and staff.
• Hand washing is extremely important and must be conducted regularly and in the correct way.
• Clinical waste must be disposed of in the correct bag in a bin with a lid. All contents of the bins need to be disposed of appropriately at the end of the day.
• This is your responsibility to conduct this policy and to make sure everyone around you is doing the same thing.
• Continuous cleaning of the environment and sterilisation of the probe must happen to reduce any danger of cross contamination from any disease.
• All fabric material needs to be washed at the end of the day with the appropriate washing treatment and temperature to kill all gems.
• Scan room floor needs to be disinfected as required

Cleaning & laundry

• All clinics will require a clinical waste removal service which will be provided by Initial/Rentokil.
• Clinical waste will be stored securely in yellow bins outside.
• All laundry should be completed using non-biological washing powder at at least 60°C minimum. Laundry should be dried quickly to prevent bacterial growth.

Cleaning & care of the ultrasound probes

By following the proper care and handling procedures the transducer and product life can be maximised. All transducers must be cleaned after every use…an essential step before disinfection with Tristel Duo Wipes System is used.

• After every exam ensure the acoustic coupling gel is completely wiped off the transducer.
• Remove trans-vaginal transducer cover and dispose as clinical waste.
• Use a moistened disinfectant wipe to remove any remaining contaminants from the transducer or cable.
• Do not re-use cloths or wipes
• Use the Tristel Duo Wipes System as per instructions (trans-vaginal transducer only)
• Handle all transducers with extreme care
• Ensure that connected transducers are placed in the probe holder when not in use.
• Visually inspect transducers and cables for any damage prior to connecting to ultrasound system.
• Do not drop or knock the transducer.
• Do not leave transducers in places where they are subjected to being knocked over or dropped.
• Do not let transducer cables dangle loosely from the ultrasound system where they may be caught in the coasters while moving the chair.
• Do not apply excessive bending or pulling force to the transducer cable