PORTABLE EQUIPMENT DECONTAMINATION:

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and eye protection, when cleaning and disinfecting equipment.

• Use only approved disinfectants that are compatible with the equipment, following manufacturer recommendations.

• Avoid excessive moisture or liquid ingress that could damage electronic components.

• Turn off the device and disconnect it from power, if applicable.

• Remove disposable components.

• Wipe down external surfaces using a disinfectant wipe or cloth dampened with an approved cleaning solution. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the device.

• Inspect for damage and ensure the device is operational before returning it to service.

• Restock supplies (pads, battery, etc.) as needed.

• Report any damaged or malfunctioning equipment to the appropriate supervisor immediately.

GENERAL AMBULANCE DECONTAMINATION:

Maintaining a clean and sanitary ambulance is essential for infection control and the safety of both patients and personnel. Proper decontamination reduces the risk of cross-contamination and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Before starting decontamination, personnel shall wear appropriate PPE, including:

• Disposable gloves

• Eye protection (if splashes are possible)

• Face masks (if dealing with airborne contaminants)

• Gowns (if bodily fluids are present)

Removal of Contaminated Items

• Dispose of any single-use items (e.g., gloves, masks, disposable sheets) in biohazard waste bags.

• Remove linens and place them in designated laundry bags for washing.

Initial Cleaning

• Gross Contamination: If bodily fluids are present, clean the area with absorbent material before applying disinfectant.

• Surface Cleaning: Use an EPA-approved detergent or cleaner to remove visible dirt and organic material from all surfaces, including prams, seats, and floors.

Disinfection Process

• Apply an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

• Ensure adequate contact time as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Pay extra attention to high-touch areas, including:

  • Pram rails

  • Seat belts

  • Door handles

  • Control panels

  • Radio and computer equipment

Air Circulation and Ventilation

• If aerosolized pathogens are a concern, allow the ambulance to ventilate by keeping doors open for at least 10-15 minutes.

• Consider using UV-C light or air filtration systems if available.

Floor and Upholstery Cleaning

• Mop floors with an approved disinfectant.

• Spot-clean fabric seats and ensure they are fully dry before reusing.

Equipment Decontamination

• Clean and disinfect monitors, defibrillators, oxygen tanks, and any reusable medical equipment.

• Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for electronic devices to prevent damage.

Final Inspection and Restocking

• Conduct a visual inspection to ensure all surfaces are clean.

• Restock supplies and ensure the unit is ready for the next call.

Special Considerations

• C. difficile or Norovirus Exposure: Use bleach-based disinfectants.

• Bloodborne Pathogens: Ensure compliance with OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standards.

BEDBUGS:

Ambulance:

1. Remove All Linens: Carefully take out all linens, including sheets and blankets, and place them in a sealed plastic bag to prevent spreading.

2. Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to thoroughly vacuum the ambulance, focusing on seams, crevices, and corners where bed bugs may hide.

3. Steam Cleaning: Bed bugs are sensitive to heat. Use a steam cleaner on all surfaces, especially around the patient care area and in cracks and crevices.

4. Insecticide Treatment: Apply a bed bug-specific insecticide, following the manufacturer's guidelines.

5. Monitor: After decontamination, regularly inspect the ambulance for signs of bed bugs.

Equipment Decontamination:

1. Remove Non-essential Equipment: If possible, remove non-essential equipment from the ambulance during the decontamination process.

2. Wipe Down: Clean all equipment with EPA-registered disinfectants effective against bed bugs. Ensure to reach all surfaces.

3. Heat Treatment: If possible, use portable heating units to expose equipment to high temperatures. Heat is effective at killing bedbugs at all stages of life.

Clothing:

1. Change Immediately: After transporting a patient with bed bugs, EMTs shall change out of their uniforms immediately to prevent the spread.

DO NOT wear contaminated clothing inside the base.

2. Sealed Bags: Place uniforms in sealed plastic bags for transport to a laundry facility.

3. Laundering: Wash uniforms in hot water and dry on the highest heat setting.

4. Inspect and Shower: EMTs shall inspect their skin and personal belongings, then take a hot shower to ensure no bed bugs are present.