Disinfection of Shared Mobile Phones Carried by Registered Nurses: A Comparison of Two Methods

This study determined the efficacy of cleaning products on mobile phones. Previous research has demonstrated the risk for bacterial cross contamination between healthcare workers\u27 hands, close contact equipment, and mobile communication devices. There is extensive literature on survival of organisms on inanimate objects. Mobile communication devices can act as a reservoir for bacteria associated with nosocomial infection. Additional studies show cross contamination between the healthcare workers hands, the mobile phones, and the patient.https://digitalcommons.centracare.com/nursing_posters/1025/thumbnail.jp

You Missed a Spot! Disinfecting Shared Mobile Phones

The use of portable mobile devices has facilitated timely communication among healthcare team members. It\u27s now a common practice for hospital-owned mobile phones to be shared among healthcare employees from shift to shift. Despite the benefit of increased, timely communication between caregivers, sharing mobile devices can lead to the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This article looks at the efficacy of two types of cleaning products on shared mobile phones carried by RNs at a 489-bed, Magnet-designated, Midwestern regional medical center. The cleaning methods evaluated were 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and ethyl alcohol wipes

Bacteria on Shared Mobile Phones Can Lead to Infections

It\u27s now a common practice for hospital-owned mobile phones to be shared among healthcare employees from shift to shift. Despite the benefit of increased, timely communication between caregivers, sharing mobile devices can lead to the spread of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) if they aren\u27t properly disinfected. The Guidelines for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities describe non-critical environmental surfaces as items that are frequently touched by the hand and may pose a risk of secondary infection transmission

Graduated Compression Stocking and Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Device Length Selection

PURPOSE: The purpose of this project was to incorporate current evidence into length selection for graduated compression stockings (GCS) and intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices in order to evaluate and modify current practice. RATIONALE: Staff nurses relate concerns regarding the fit and complications related to poorly fitting thigh length GCS and IPC devices. Current evidence supports using knee length over thigh length. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT: With the use of Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt\u27s model of evidence-based practice and Norwood\u27s consultation model, current practice was evaluated and practice changes were implemented based on results of a literature review. OUTCOME: Knee length will be selected instead of thigh length in general and urology surgery patients. The department of obstetrics and gynecology has taken the practice change under consideration. CONCLUSION: Knee-length GCS and IPC devices are as effective as thigh-length GCS and IPC devices, are more comfortable for patients, are easier for staff and patients to use, pose less risk of injury to patients, and are less expensive. Knee-length GCS and IPC devices may safely be used for general, gynecology, and urology surgery patients and are preferable to thigh-length GCS and IPC devices. IMPLICATIONS: Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis is an important component of surgical care; proper length selection of GCS and IPC devices should be based on current evidence. This project outlines a method to change practice regarding length selection of GCS and IPC devices

Developing, Implementing, and Evaluating a Professional Practice Model

This article describes how The Compass, a professional practice model (PPM), was developed through clinical nurse involvement, review of literature, expert opinion, and an innovative schematic. Implementation was supported through a dynamic video account of a patient story, interwoven with The Compass. Postproject evaluation of PPM integration demonstrates opportunities for professional nursing development and future planning