Self-check-in kiosks massively improve the patient experience. They speed up queue times, simplify check-in, and make capturing patient data easy.
However, they are also central contact points for countless patients and staff. People interact with the touchscreens on these devices every day. With rising concerns over the hygiene of public touch screens, it is more important than ever to understand the risks your kiosks could pose if they are not properly cleaned and protected.
Bacteria are the most common causes of healthcare associated infection (HAI) so it is vital we implement effective infection prevention control policies to protect our patients. It can be a good idea to appoint an IPC lead who can implement change where needed.
Aside from combating the germs which may be on a touch screen, you can combat germs in the rest of your general practice waiting room by:
- having contractors follow a general cleaning schedule with detailed guidelines. Ensure to emphasise high-frequency touch items such as door handles.
- training staff to effectively dispose of any PPE and encourage them to follow hand hygiene protocols
- keep your GP surgery well ventilated or use an air purifier, which may be particularly useful in the winter months
Know Your Germs: The Microbes That Spread Through Patient Touchscreens
Without the right precautions and maintenance, patient touchscreens quickly become a hotbed of transmittable germs. These include everything from enterococcus faecalis, which causes many hospital-acquired infections, to coronavirus, which survives on glass surfaces for up to four days.
In our new infographic, you'll find out what these germs are, where they come from, and how you can prevent them from spreading.
What You'll Learn
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The 5 most common germs that breed on your patient touchscreens
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How these germs transmit, the diseases they cause, and other important facts
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3 tips that will make your touchscreens safer and more hygienic
View the infographic now by clicking the link below.
