
Cleaning Homes Infected with C. Diff: The Jax Decon Approach
Understanding C. Diff Infections
Clostridium difficile, commonly known as C. diff, is a bacterium that can cause severe diarrhea and colitis, an inflammation of the colon. It’s a significant concern in healthcare settings, but it can also affect private residences, particularly when someone in the home has been hospitalized or on antibiotics. C. diff spores are resilient and can survive on surfaces for long periods, making thorough cleaning and disinfection essential to prevent the spread of infection.
At Jax Decon, we understand the gravity of a C. diff infection and the meticulous care required to eliminate the bacteria from an infected environment. Our team is specially trained to handle biohazard cleaning, including cases involving infectious diseases like C. diff.
Assessment and Planning
The first step in our process is a comprehensive assessment of the infected area. Our certified professionals evaluate the extent of contamination, identifying high-touch surfaces and areas where the infected person has spent significant time. This assessment helps us create a detailed cleaning plan tailored to the specific needs of the home.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Safety is paramount in any biohazard situation. Our technicians wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to C. diff spores. This includes gloves, gowns, masks, and eye protection. Proper PPE not only protects our team but also prevents cross-contamination to other areas of the home.
Thorough Cleaning and Disinfection
Once the assessment is complete, we begin the cleaning process. C. diff spores are resistant to many common disinfectants, so we use EPA-approved products specifically designed to kill these hardy bacteria. Our cleaning process involves multiple steps:
- Surface Cleaning: We start by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces to remove any visible dirt, debris, and organic matter. This step is crucial as it allows the disinfectants to work more effectively.
- Disinfection: After cleaning, we apply hospital-grade disinfectants to all surfaces. We pay special attention to high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, faucets, and medical equipment. The disinfectants are allowed to dwell for the recommended amount of time to ensure maximum effectiveness.
- Fogging: In some cases, we may use a fogging system to disperse disinfectant throughout the home, reaching areas that are difficult to clean manually. This helps ensure comprehensive coverage and decontamination.
Waste Disposal
Handling waste from a C. diff cleanup requires strict adherence to biohazard protocols. All contaminated materials, including PPE, cleaning supplies, and any porous items that cannot be adequately disinfected, are carefully bagged and disposed of following local and federal regulations. This prevents the spread of infection beyond the home.
Final Inspection and Certification
After the cleaning and disinfection process, our team conducts a final inspection to ensure all areas have been thoroughly treated. We provide a certification of completion, giving the homeowners peace of mind that their home has been professionally cleaned and decontaminated.
Post-Cleaning Guidance
Jax Decon also offers guidance to homeowners on preventing future infections, such as maintaining good hand hygiene, using appropriate cleaning products, and taking precautions if someone in the home is at risk of infection.
Conclusion
Cleaning a home infected with C. diff requires expertise, specialized equipment, and meticulous attention to detail. At Jax Decon, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive cleaning solutions that prioritize safety and thoroughness. Our goal is to restore the home to a safe and sanitary condition, providing peace of mind to homeowners during a challenging time.