Many hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Pacific region are struggling with crucial infection prevention measures, specifically in relation to cleanliness and waste management. Suranga De Silva, a WASH Specialist at UNICEF, points out that the importance of proper cleaning and the safe disposal of healthcare waste, such as used syringes, is often underestimated within health systems.
De Silva emphasizes the misconception that water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solely relate to clean water and toilets. In reality, effective infection prevention necessitates comprehensive waste management and thorough cleaning protocols to minimize the spread of germs and protect patient health. He highlights a significant challenge within the health sector: the need for appropriate resources and training regarding WASH practices, which tend to be overshadowed by larger infrastructure projects like building hospitals and incinerators.
The expert calls for healthcare institutions to equip themselves with the necessary tools, trained personnel, and robust protocols to adequately manage waste and sustain clean environments, advocating that such measures will not only enhance hospital safety but also strengthen overall health systems.
Similar discussions in previous articles have underlined that achieving sustainable management of water and sanitation services is integral for healthcare settings in the Pacific. For instance, only 17% of urban residents connected to the Water Authority of Fiji have access to adequate sewered sanitation, which further complicates the WASH challenges.
Amid these difficulties, recent collaborative efforts among health ministries and organizations aim to improve sanitation facilities, especially in underserved communities. This ongoing commitment reflects a hopeful trend toward enhancing public health in the region, signifying a promising approach to addressing infrastructure challenges and fostering healthier environments for vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, even though significant hurdles remain, the shared commitment from various stakeholders suggests there is a future possibility for improving healthcare standards and ensuring safer healthcare environments across the Pacific nations.
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