What must be done with soiled linen in a healthcare setting?

In a healthcare setting, soiled linen must be placed in designated hampers for disposal to ensure safe and proper handling. This practice helps prevent the spread of infections and maintains hygiene standards within the facility. Specifically, the hampers are often color-coded or labeled to indicate that they are specifically for soiled items, allowing for efficient segregation from clean linen.

Storing soiled linen in designated hampers also facilitates proper laundering procedures, as it ensures that the linen is categorized correctly when it reaches the laundry area. This step is crucial in maintaining infection control protocols, as improperly handled soiled linen can become a source of contamination or illness within the healthcare environment. Overall, following these procedures protects both staff and patients by minimizing the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens.