27 June 2022

Maternity wards are often at risk of contracting harmful healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) and other diseases, so it’s vital to pay special attention to the cleanliness of these spaces. In addition to maintaining the cleanliness of the maternity ward itself, proper commercial cleaning services help reduce the risk of infection. Moreover, maternity wards are prone to infection-causing microbial growth, which can lead to serious complications.

Contaminated Surfaces are a Potential Source of Infection

Infections can occur in any environment, including hospitals. The environment can foster the growth of drug-resistant pathogens. Staff and patients often shed these pathogens, increasing the risk of cross-contamination for other people. Various factors influence the rate of cross-contamination, including the amount and type of surface contamination and environmental factors. For example, contaminated surfaces are likely to harbor a variety of organisms, ranging from common bacteria to multidrug-resistant organisms.

Healthcare workers’ hands are the primary vectors for the transmission of pathogens in hospitals. Healthcare workers’ hands contribute to about 20% of nosocomial infections. The number of bacteria present on caregivers’ hands increases linearly with time spent on patients’ bedsides. The presence of contaminated surfaces is associated with higher rates of infection, especially among healthcare workers who touch frequently. Commercial cleaners in Melbourne ensure that there are no contaminated surfaces.

Lack of Training

The study found that lack of formal training was common across all participating facilities, reflecting the general undervaluation of cleaners, who are often the least well-paid and without any contractual security. This lack of training is a critical area for future improvement, but the findings also suggest that a bundle of interventions focusing on commercial cleaning practices may be the key to addressing this problem. The study found that the relationship between cleanliness and pathogens was not clear and that maternity units had no formal training for ward cleaners. Further, the study found that there was no evidence to support the conclusion that maternity units have poor hygiene. The findings of the study point to a significant gap in the level of awareness of the importance of good healthcare standards.

Undervaluation of Cleaning Staff

The undervaluation of cleaning staff in hospital maternity wards is a common occurrence. Often at the bottom of the hierarchy, they have a low status within the facility and receive little appreciation for their contributions. Many of the issues surrounding this situation stem from a negative perception of women and their hygiene, as well as from cultural and societal stereotypes of childbirth. Despite these challenges, empowering cleaning staff can lead to healthier wards and fewer hospital-acquired infections.

Cleaning staff are undervalued, despite their crucial role in preventing infections. Yet, despite their essential role in IPC, they remain undervalued by many hospitals. This undervaluation is reflected in a lack of adequate training and recognition for cleaning staff in hospitals. In addition, the lack of written policies and practices, suboptimal monitoring, and poor engagement among cleaning staff are common issues. We ensure proper cleaning of maternity wards. Hold our hand and avoid cleaning problems in your maternity ward.