The Role of Overbed Tables with KYDEX Tops in Infection Control and Reducing Hospital Acquired Infections
In the healthcare environment, preventing hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) is a paramount concern. Overbed tables, which are extensively used by patients, play a crucial role in infection control. Among the various types available, overbed tables with KYDEX top surfaces stand out for their superior hygiene properties and durability. This post explores how these tables may contribute to infection control and reducing HAIs, leveraging insights from MedViron’s comprehensive range of overbed tables.
Understanding the Importance of Infection Control
Hospital-acquired infections are a significant challenge in healthcare settings, contributing to prolonged hospital stays, increased medical costs, and higher patient morbidity and mortality rates. Effective infection control measures are essential to mitigate these risks, and one critical aspect is the cleanliness and cleanability of hospital furniture, including overbed tables.
The Advantages of KYDEX Top Surfaces
KYDEX is a thermoplastic material known for its durability and resistance to harsh cleaning chemicals. This makes it an ideal choice for surfaces in healthcare settings. The KYDEX tops on MedViron overbed tables offer several key benefits:
- Durability: KYDEX is four times thicker than standard rigid thermofilm, providing superior impact resistance and longevity. This durability ensures that the tables can withstand the rigorous demands of a hospital environment, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thereby lowering overall costs.
- Chemical Resistance: KYDEX withstands degradation from a wide range of hospital cleaners and disinfectants, maintaining its integrity and appearance over time. This resistance is crucial for preventing the growth and spread of pathogens on surfaces that are frequently cleaned and disinfected.
- Seamless Design: The seamless, thermoformed surfaces of KYDEX prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria in crevices and joints. This feature simplifies cleaning and ensures that surfaces can be thoroughly sanitized, vital for infection control.
MedViron Overbed Tables: Features and Innovations
MedViron offers an array of overbed tables designed with KYDEX surfaces, each featuring specific attributes tailored to enhance functionality and infection control. The 32” and 39” models are recognized for their ease of cleaning and smooth pneumatic operation, while the Sotto model is specifically designed for critical care beds and stretchers equipped with motorized 5th wheel drive systems. Each table supports up to 100 lbs of evenly distributed weight and incorporates various features to improve user experience and maintain hygiene standards:
- Spill Containment: Capable of retaining up to 40 ounces of liquid, this feature helps manage spills effectively, reducing the risk of contamination.
- Height Adjustment: The pneumatic height adjustment mechanism, tested for 10,000 cycles, ensures reliable performance and ease of use for both patients and caregivers.
- Dual Casters: Provide smooth mobility and easy positioning, crucial for patient and caregiver convenience.
- Optional Storage: Removable shelves facilitate easy cleaning, ensuring all parts of the table can be sanitized thoroughly.
- Ergonomic Design: Features such as a conveniently located activation lever and non-handed design enhance usability and patient comfort.
- Durability and Warranty: The aluminum height adjustment column, tested for 10,000 cycles, along with a limited lifetime warranty, underscores the table’s reliability and long-term performance.
MedViron’s overbed tables with KYDEX tops may contribute to infection control through their easy-to-clean surfaces and chemical resistance. The seamless design of KYDEX tops eliminates cracks and crevices where bacteria can hide, making it easier to clean and disinfect these surfaces thoroughly. Additionally, the ability to withstand repeated cleaning with harsh disinfectants without degrading ensures that the tables remain hygienic over their lifespan.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
KYDEX-topped overbed tables offer significant environmental and economic benefits. The durability of KYDEX ensures a longer lifespan for these tables, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated costs. MedViron’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the use of recycled materials and recyclable packaging; the MDF used in the tabletops contains 100% pre-consumer recycled content, and the steel and aluminum components also include substantial amounts of recycled material.
Overbed tables with KYDEX top surfaces may be asset in the fight against hospital-acquired infections. Their durability, ease of cleaning, and chemical resistance makes them ideal for the demanding healthcare environment. MedViron’s range of overbed tables, including the 32”, 39”, and Sotto models, exemplify how thoughtful design and high-quality materials can enhance infection control, improve patient outcomes, and provide economic and environmental benefits.
For healthcare facilities looking to improve their infection control measures, investing in overbed tables with KYDEX surfaces is a strategic choice that may support both patient safety and operational efficiency.
