An Assessment of Health Care Supportive Services; Linen and Laundry Management in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Sri Lanka

Contaminated textiles and fabrics often contain high numbers of microorganisms from body substances, including blood, skin etc. and proper management of linen and laundry is a recognized support service that is vital to ensure prevention of nosocomial infections. The objective of this exercise was to assess the linen and laundry management of a tertiary care hospital and identify existing gaps. Four units of the hospital with frequent complaints were chosen for the assessment which was carried out using the Donabedian model of structure, process and outcome. Both quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to assess gaps in the hospital linen and laundry management. Qualitative techniques included key informant interviews and quantitative methods included a satisfaction survey among nursing officers and minor staff using interviewer administered questionnaires and desk reviews and observations using check lists. Results of assessment showed many gaps in structure, process and outcome. Gaps in structure included inadequate segregation and initial washing facilities as less than 65% of necessary facilities were available. Process showed many deficiencies in the segregation process, washing process, documentation practices, performance of outsourced laundry owners and supervision. Assessment of the outcomes revealed that majority of Nursing Officers (59%) and Health Assistants (57%) perceived dissatisfaction with quality of linen and facilities available. Majority of the nursing officers (61.7%) responded that they received complaints regarding linen from patients.