Gordon Hospital reduces risk for infection with new cleaning technology

Gordon Hospital is disinfecting a little differently these days.

In an effort to advance infection prevention efforts, Gordon Hospital has purchased a Surfacide HeliosTM, which uses UV-C ultraviolet light to kill multi-drug resistant organisms, including MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and C-diff (Clostridium difficile).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in every 20 hospitalized patients gets an infection caused by receiving medical care.

-resistant organisms are bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics used to treat them. Such organisms are a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections, or infections patients acquire while receiving treatment for other conditions.

The technology, which consists of three robotic towers operating during the same disinfection cycle, leaves no surface untouched, contributing to improved disinfection. Using a tablet and laser mapping technology, the machine allows users to see that all surfaces have been effectively sanitized.

No one is in the room when the disinfecting process takes place. The system can detect anyone entering the room and instantly shuts off, ensuring patient, visitor, and employee safety.

"We are very excited to begin using this technology," said Sandra Webb, RN, infection preventionist for Gordon Hospital. "We pride ourselves in our patient experience and quality scores. This is a step to strive toward exceeding that."