Hands-Free approach to ice production reduces risk of HCAI in Hospitals
Hubbard Ice Systems, the UK distributor of worldwide brand-leading Scotsman Ice Machines, recommends that Infection Control Professionals, Theatre Staff and Clinical Nurses regularly review their ice production protocol as a matter of routine. Ice and iced water provide a convenient and low cost solution in numerous medical processes but some older mechanical ice machines can harbour harmful bacteria and can offer the potential for infection during the production and dispensing of ice.
Chris Framingham, Public Sector specialist at Hubbard Ice Systems says;"There are two main areas that offer the potential for contamination of ice cubes, the first is the water supply, which should be clean and of drinking water quality, and the other is the storage and handling of ice whilst being dispensed or collected. In conjunction with other preventative methods, such as personal hygiene and routine machine cleaning, the Scotsman system of 'hands-free' dispensing is regarded as the optimal method to prevent cross contamination by infection control professionals"
Scotsman machines produce very hard, clear hygienic ice at very cold temperatures of -25°C and, as they only supply ice on demand, cubes are as fresh as possible. The Scotsman range of hands-free machines identify the presence of a user when a container is placed in the dispensing area using an infrared 'magic eye' system, dispensing cubes automatically. The range consists of three tabletop models: the MDT 5N 25, MDT 5N 40 and TC 180, supported by a small footprint, floor standing, vertical model: the CD 40 'Ice-Station'.
For theatre use where the 'no-touch' technique is critical Hubbard Ice recommends the Scotsman MDT 5N 25 & 40 Ice and water dispensers. The machines ensure that hands do not contaminate sterile equipment or the patient. They are ideal for procedures where ice is required to regulate the temperature of fluids in intravenous tubing.
The Scotsman MDT ice dispensers ensure a steady supply of ice, easily accessed by health personnel without the risk of cross contamination. The machines can be sited in the main operating theatre so that fresh ice is available on demand. Both models produce up to 237kg in a 24-hour period with storage capacities of 12kg and 18kg respectively.
For ward level use the Scotsman TC 180 is especially suitable. It is an ultra-hygienic ice and water dispenser tabletop model with stylish looks and compact size. It has easy-clean rounded corners, a removable dispensing chute for sanitising and electronic controls delivering ultra-reliable performance. The unit produces up to 150kg of ice every 24 hours.
For general areas the Scotsman CD 40 Ice Station also utilises hygienic hands-free operation. The free standing CD 40 produces up to 34kg per day and has a small footprint and simple lines, making it ideal for use in public areas such as corridors, halls and waiting areas.
Chris Framingham comments "Although hygiene practices have improved enormously in recent years, standards of cleanliness vary within and between hospitals and many clinicians and patients remain concerned. The installation of a Scotsman hands-free ice-making system is a sure way of improving hygiene standards and reducing the incidence of HCAIs further.
