How to Clean Contaminated Medical Equipment

Contaminated medical equipment is a potential health hazard to patients, as well as their caregivers. Equipment must be thoroughly cleaned before it can be used on other patients. Bacteria and viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis C can live and thrive on medical objects and surfaces, causing the spread of disease and infections between patients. However, these organisms can be killed by proper decontamination. If medical personnel cannot clean contaminated equipment immediately after contact with blood or body secretions, the soiled equipment should be isolated and labeled until it can be disinfected.

Things You'll Need

• Disposable gloves
• Face mask
• Disposable gown/apron
• Hospital-grade germicidal spray
• Disposable cleaning cloths
• Hot water
• Hospital-grade sanitizing soap

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Instructions

• 1

  Don your protective gear--gloves, gown and mask. Use of this protective gear is an important safety precaution in guarding against the spread of diseases.

• 2

  Sort the contaminated equipment according to size and whether it is an electrical item. Non-electrical items may be soaked and washed in a sink; However, equipment with electrical plugs or computerized components must be carefully wiped with a cloth.

• 3

  If you are cleaning computerized or electrical equipment:

  Remove all attachments such as wires and plugs from the equipment. Dampen a cleaning cloth with germicidal spray, and wipe down the contaminated equipment. Spray enough germicide to clean and remove any dried blood or other contaminants. Don't soak the cloth by overspraying. Do not spray the germicidal spray directly into the computerized, electrical parts of the equipment. Allow the equipment to thoroughly dry before reattaching the electrical plugs and reusing on patients.

• 4

  If you are cleaning non-electrical equipment:

  Fill a large wash basin or sink with hot water and soap. Place the contaminated equipment into the soapy water and allow the items to soak for 10 minutes. Wash the equipment thoroughly with the cleaning cloths, applying firm pressure while scrubbing. Rinse off the soap with warm water. Allow the equipment to dry completely before using.

• 5

  Store the equipment in a "clean utility room" if it will not be used immediately after disinfecting. Ensure that all items without wheels, such as infusion pumps, are stored on shelves inside the utility room.