Carmarthenshire works to wipe out infection
Committed to Tuffie 5
Healthcare Assistant Gaynor Gordon
The Carmarthenshire division of Hywel Dda NHS Trust is targeting infection prevention with hard hitting measures, including introducing the new Tuffie 5 wipe that eradicates the major five major groups of pathogens such as clostridium difficile (C.diff), MRSA and E. Coli.
The powerful new Tuffie 5 wipe from infection control products manufacturer Vernacare was trialled on a medical ward at West Wales General Hospital, in Carmarthen.
Said Shan Moses, Infection Control Coordinator: "The Tuffie 5 trial proved so successful that we decided to introduce it into both our acute sites Prince Phillip & West Wales General hospital and into the cottage hospitals. It provides a sporicide, disinfectant and detergent all in one wipe that is skin safe and easy to use.
"The wipe has been very well received by nurses and healthcare support staff. They can use one wipe with confidence that it will eradicate all types of pathogens, rather than using a combination of detergent wipes, disinfectant solutions and alcohol sprays.
"Tuffie 5 does the complete job and it means that more time can be spent with patients as staff no longer have to spend time mixing disinfectant solutions. There is also less scope for error in achieving the right levels of solution concentration."
The new product is now a key part of the hospitals' cleaning protocol and is used in cleaning all equipment in isolation rooms. "After every use, staff clean commodes with the new wipe", explained Shan. "Staff also use Vernacare's indicator tape, which is sealed around equipment after cleaning and signed and dated by the person who has cleaned it to show the patient that excellent hygiene standards have been achieved".
The infection prevention team has also spread its message to the wider community and recently demonstrated Tuffie 5 and other infection prevention solutions at town centre roadshows.
Tuffie 5 provides a highly effective pre-impregnated wet wipe, capable of cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces, equipment and non invasive medical devices. It eradicates pathogens on initial impact, but industry tests show that its sanitising properties continue to work after cleaning has taken place.
The wipes are fragrance, chlorine and alcohol free, and are available initially in easy access tub dispensers containing 225 wipes. Small soft packs and wall mounted dispensers will also be introduced.
For a free sample tub of Tuffie 5, or further information contact the customer care team on 01204 555999, or email vcorders@vernagroup.com
