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"Plastic bags could be infection risk"

About: University Hospital Hairmyres / Elective Orthopaedics (Ward 7)

(as the patient),

Attended ward 7 for knee replacement surgery. 

Plastic bags were used at times during preparation for theatre to hold clothing. These bags are used and reused, and look like they came from a coal delivery truck. The smell of them is foul. They are never cleaned.

In these days of virus infection and airborne bugs, surely someone can see this is a very dangerous practice. As infected clothing comes into contact with others over and over.

Why not use plastic boxes such as used at athletics tracks, then they can be sanitised between patients?

That this has never been picked up shocks me. It is quite simply sloppy practice.

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Responses

Response from Lise Axford, Chief of Nursing, University Hospital Hairmyres, NHS Lanarkshire 4 months ago
Lise Axford
Chief of Nursing, University Hospital Hairmyres,
NHS Lanarkshire
Submitted on 30/12/2024 at 13:43
Published on Care Opinion at 13:43


picture of Lise Axford

Dear kipper24

Thank you for sharing your feedback regarding the use of plastic bags for patient clothing. I am not aware that any plastic bags are reused on the wards and I apologise if this has been the case.

I have also spoken to ward staff and have been assured that clothing bags are single person use only so I am unable to ascertain exactly what has happened in your case, however again I am sorry if you were given a previously used bag. Patients are given a bag to use for their clothes if they do not have access to a locker or have not bought their own bag. We try and utilise lockers for all in patients as this minimises the amount of plastic used.

As our bags are supplied in a roll and there is an odour associated with the plastic roll. I am sorry if this was not explained to you.

Thank you for suggesting the use of boxes. We do use cardboard (single use) boxes for personal belongings. Often patients request a bag for their clothes so relatives can take home.

I will share your comments with all wards so that staff can reflect on your feedback.

Thank you again for sharing your concerns

Kind regards

Lise

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