Healthcare environmental services (EVS) is unlike any other type of commercial cleaning, so it calls for specialized training, including in the following areas.
Sharps. Improper sharps disposal can have severe consequences for EVS workers, other hospital staff, and patients. For example, reaching into a waste receptacle to push trash down can result in a puncture wound from a used needle or other sharp, which could have dire health consequences. Neglecting proper procedure when removing and disposing of full sharps containers can also be dangerous. These hazards are not faced in other commercial settings.
Terminal cleaning. Every time a patient with an infectious disease is moved from a room, every surface must be cleaned and disinfected. This is referred to as terminal cleaning. It requires a specific top-to-bottom, outermost-to-door approach to ensure no surface is missed. Also, while all commercial cleaners must be trained to use disinfectants properly, EVS technicians need additional knowledge regarding which formulas are effective against specific bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens frequently found in healthcare facilities.
Surgical. While most EVS technicians are not responsible for sterilizing surgical instruments, they are responsible for cleaning up after surgeries. This requires knowledge of the proper procedure, including cleaning and disinfecting surfaces contaminated with copious amounts of blood and other bodily fluids.
Emergency. Horrific accidents happen to people of all ages and walks of life. EVS technicians working in emergency departments (ED) must be ready to quickly yet thoroughly clean and disinfect these areas to keep them safe and sanitary. This can be incredibly challenging during busy times.
Disaster. EVS technicians must be prepared to handle large numbers of patients during natural and manmade disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, epidemics, and mass shootings. Dealing with these situations requires training to enable EVS workers to remain calm and follow proper procedures amidst the chaos and stress of a disaster.
Empathy. On average, EVS technicians spend more time in patients’ rooms than most doctors, meaning more time interacting with patients. It is not unusual for patients and their friends and families to feel more comfortable communicating with EVS workers than other hospital staff. For example, patients are more likely to ask an EVS technician to take a picture or translate something than they are to ask a doctor or nurse. Many patients also discuss their treatment concerns and fears with an EVS worker. These concerns come from all ages, from young children experiencing a broken bone or facing their first chemo treatment to elders nearing the end of their lives. For this reason, the best EVS technicians receive training to help them hone their communication and empathy skills.
EVS Provider Near Me
Need help finding a hospital EVS provider that ensures technicians receive all the above training and much more? Browse the healthcare section of our website or contact us.
Are you looking for a career with a hospital EVS provider that provides the training you need for success and advancement? Read what these employees say about working at Servicon and learn more about our career opportunities.
