15/12/2005

Hospitals criticised on cleanliness

Two-thirds of hospitals are failing to meet the highest standards of cleanliness, a report has found.

The report, conducted by the Healthcare Commission, involved surprise visits at nearly 100 NHS and private hospitals. Only 33 hospitals achieved the highest standards, while 43 were classed as having “room for improvement”.

Mental health hospitals fared the worst in the report, with the six dirtiest hospitals all being NHS mental health hospitals.

Medical equipment, beds, sinks, bedpans and toilets were all examined during the visits, as well as spillages, blood, general stains and dust.

Simon Gillespie, head of operations at the Healthcare Commission, said: “We have found some excellent performances. It is a myth to say all our hospitals are dirty. Among the highest scores were hospitals of all types.

“This shows that healthcare managers can achieve the highest standards and all should on behalf of patients.”

Commenting on the report, Health Minister Jane Kennedy said: “We recently announced £130 million capital funding specifically to update mental health environments and will announce further work on enhancing the environment soon.”

(KMcA)


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