What must a health care facility do if it processes laundry off-site?

Choosing to use a laundry room equipped with mechanical washers and dryers is crucial for maintaining infection control and ensuring proper hygiene standards in a health care facility. Facilities that process laundry off-site must ensure that the washing and drying processes effectively remove contaminants, pathogens, and any residual substances from the laundry of residents.

Mechanical washers and dryers specifically designed for commercial or medical use are equipped with settings and capacities that can handle larger loads of laundry and higher temperatures, which are vital for sterilization. Compliance with health regulations often requires that laundry be washed at certain temperatures and in a systematic manner to safeguard the health of both residents and staff.

This choice reflects a commitment to maintaining strict hygiene and safety protocols, which are essential in a health care environment where vulnerability to infections can be significant. Additionally, using specialized equipment ensures better quality control and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination that might arise from using inadequate laundering processes.