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The need for social distancing has had an immediate impact on how healthcare facilities handle meal time. Because of this we wanted to share some of the things we’ve learned from other healthcare providers about how they have addressed the new restrictions of social distancing.
There are many things that can be done to protect patients and residents in Healthcare. Fortunately, many solutions have been incorporated into normal healthcare routines. The major difference is looking at each scenario with a critical eye and find out where improvements can be made.
Here are a few commonly used methods we have found are being implemented to ensure proper social distancing.
Many facilities have opted to switch from traditional serveware and condiments to single-use disposables. Some of the most common single-use items are disposable plates, plastic utensils, and even single condiment packages.
By increasing the use of disposable items, you can experience several benefits. First of which is a decrease in labor that is used to clean standard plates and utensils. Less time cleaning equates to more time caring for patients and residents.
The best way to ensure there is less exposure of food to the environment; simple covering has helped out tremendously. Food can be covered with insulated dome lids that maintain food temperature. Since these are put over food in the kitchen, there is little to no exposure to air in the patient and resident areas.
When food temperature isn’t your top priority, simple cellophane bags and sandwich wraps are simple, disposable items that are easy to handle and provide an excellent barrier to the air. Best of all cellophane is inexpensive and is available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.
Finally, trays, carts, and racks that the food is delivered on can be covered and only opened in controlled environments. By choosing carts with doors or covers you are adding more barriers between the food and any harmful particles. When dealing with covering following the same protocols as your PPE is safe. Additional layers provide more protection. Don’t be afraid to incorporate several of these at the same time.
Cleaning and sanitizing is not new for healthcare, but the frequency has increased so much that many facilities are running out of cleaners, gloves, mops, buckets, and other cleaning items. You may even find that the types of cleaners are subject to change as well. Many single-use items are easily discarded after each use.
Cleaning supplies such as mops and buckets may be needed in more places. Adding to your inventory of equipment will aid in cleanliness. We would recommend having several options to accommodate the increases in cleaning and sanitizing procedures.
We understand the immense toll the current demands have put on every healthcare facility. From hospitals to senior living facilities, you have to protect those who are most vulnerable. And we want to help.
We are proud to offer a wide range of solutions to help address each of these suggestions. Contact us today. We want to help you provide care to those who need it most.
If you need help finding a solution that isn’t shown on this page, please contact our industry-leading customer service team.
We will work with you to find an option that meets your needs.
