What is the proper method for handling soiled linens?

What is the proper method for handling soiled linens?

• A. Wear gloves, avoid shaking linens, roll or place in a designated bag or hamper to minimize contamination.
• B. Shake linens vigorously to remove debris before washing.
• C. Wipe with a dry cloth and set aside for next shift.
• D. Wash linens in hot water without gloves.

Answer: (B)

Handling soiled linens safely is about preventing contamination and protecting you and others. Start by putting on gloves before touching any soiled linens. Do not shake the linens—agitating them can release pathogens into the air. Instead, roll or fold the linens to contain the soil and place them into a designated bag or hamper for contaminated items. Keep the soil contained during transport to the laundry, and avoid contact with your clothes or clean surfaces. After placing the linens in the bag, remove gloves using proper technique and perform hand hygiene right away. Follow your facility’s laundering procedures for washing temperatures and PPE, but the key idea is to minimize exposure by containing the soil and using gloves.

Handling soiled linens safely is about preventing contamination and protecting you and others. Start by putting on gloves before touching any soiled linens. Do not shake the linens—agitating them can release pathogens into the air. Instead, roll or fold the linens to contain the soil and place them into a designated bag or hamper for contaminated items. Keep the soil contained during transport to the laundry, and avoid contact with your clothes or clean surfaces. After placing the linens in the bag, remove gloves using proper technique and perform hand hygiene right away. Follow your facility’s laundering procedures for washing temperatures and PPE, but the key idea is to minimize exposure by containing the soil and using gloves.