When a hospital contemplates renovation, administrators must consider several things, including budget, timeline, and employee logistics; but the paramount concern must be patient safety. Infection control is crucial during any construction project at an existing healthcare facility.
Something as simple as improper ventilation maintenance can result in an airborne infection outbreak, thus facilities must thoroughly plan and prepare for renovation projects. Most construction projects require an infection control risk assessment (ICRA), or a multidisciplinary, well-documented process that focuses on the reduction of risk from infection and acts through the phases of facility planning, design, construction, renovation, and maintenance. There are 11 things all administrators should know to protect their patients during construction. Here is a look at the first five in Part 1 of this online series. 1. Negative pressure
All construction zones require negative pressure created with HEPA-filtered exhaust systems. The negative pressure ensures containment of any dust, mold, bacteria, solvents, and other contaminants inside the construction zone, and prevents their spread to patient areas. 2. Minimize tracking
Place tack mats at the entrances and exits of the contraction zone to minimize the risk of dust, mold spores, and other matter from leaving the construction zone. Additionally, covering materials brought into and out of the construction zone reduces this risk. 3. Seal ventilation/HVAC systems
Another essential preventive measure requires the sealing of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. By sealing supply and return air registers in the construction zone and/or disabling the HVAC system serving the construction zone, facilities can prevent the spread of construction dust. 4. Act swiftly
Any evidence of mold contamination within the construction zone must be dealt with promptly, according to Petersen. Failing to deal with mold thoroughly and quickly puts hospitals in serious risk for an infection outbreak. Mold spores can quickly spread to other parts of the hospital, and, as a result, personnel should receive proper training on disposal practices and protocol before construction projects. 5. Pressure gauges
The use of magnehelic pressure gauges can ensure proper pressure maintenance. The gauges help the hospital ensure proper pressure and flow relationships between the construction zone, anteroom, and active portions of the hospital.
