Disinfecting electric shavers

[Frankie123]

I am looking to create or find an existing hospital policy and procedure for DISINFECTING ELECTRIC SHAVERS.

This is for use of electric shavers by multiple patients. I understand that having their own is the best policy, however I am looking at creating a policy for multiple patient use.

What disinfectant do you use and for how long do you disinfect for?

What are the steps involved?

As far I can can tell you should use a Quat disinfectant, but which one would be okay and what are the steps?? I am worried about bleach or alcohol as this may rust the blades. And a spray whould not do because it should soak for X amount of time as far as I know.

Please comment.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Probably one of the best ideas would be to get a clipper with disposable blades. This is what we use for surgical preps. The clippers have very few nooks and crannies for things to hide, and the blades are never used on more than one patient. The thought of a reusable blade being used on multiple patients is, quite frankly, disturbing to me. How would it even be possible to clean those in a way not to transfer bacteria or viruses to another patient? Here's an option that has multiple blade options, although I'm sure there are many other companies out there with similar options: CareFusion Surgical Clippers, Professional Hair Clippers - CareFusion

[Frankie123]

Yeah im not too thrilled about the idea of sharing razors however it is a subject of conversation at my work and iIhave to look into this.

I will suggest the reusable blades that is an excellent idea.

Thanks Sweet wild rose

[smilingbig]

I would contact the manufacturer of the electric shaver for instructions on what kinds of solutions/materials are approved to clean the different surfaces of the clipper/shaver. Depending on the type of metal, there are certain cleansers that can be abrasive and/or corrosive creating potential infection control issues.

I agree with Sweet_Wild_Rose, disposable blades are the way to go.

I double checked with our Infection Prevention Nurse that covers our High Level Disinfection/Sterilization procedures/policies and she stated that ALL our policies for cleaning any kind of reusable equipment are EXACTLY the standards that the manufacturer has established and reference the manufacturer as the source of information.

Hope that helps!