The current health emergency is not over yet but it has already left important lessons to be learned so as not to repeat the mistakes of the past. One of the fundamental points is hygiene as the key to preventing multiple diseases and illnesses. It is a trait that should prevail in all homes and also in work spaces such as your office. Not only the integrity of your patients is at risk but also yours.
All this becomes relevant because every September 3 is commemorated the World Hygiene Day. It is a date in which it seeks to generate awareness among the population about the relevance of actions that seem small and insignificant but are actually quite the opposite.
The world during the pandemic
Just to put it in context, over the last year and a half it has been understood how fundamental proper hand washing is. It is not only due to Covid-19 but it also helps fight other diseases such as cholera and diarrhea.
From the above, you as a doctor must follow some measures strictly within your office.
In legal terms the Official Mexican Standard (NOM) 178-SSA1-1998 establishes the minimum requirements that a health care space must have in order not to be fined by the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris).
Hygiene tips that you should follow
But although the document does not mention it, there are some recommendations that must be followed at the present time. One of them is to place jars of antibacterial gel in the waiting room. The idea is to offer this protection to patients and their companions to reduce the risk of contagion.
Another hygiene recommendation is to constantly disinfect your desk and all surfaces in your office. The ideal is to do it after treating each patient because in this way you also stay protected.
While one of the fundamental aspects is the permanent use of face masks. It is an indication that both you and everyone who attends the office must follow. During care, it should never be removed unless a detailed review is necessary. While another recommendation is to have natural ventilation within your workspace.
To reinforce all of the above, the editorial team of Saludiario prepared an infographic with the hygiene instructions to be followed within the medical office. In this way you not only guarantee the safety of the patients but also yours.