Versatile Duct Tape Helps Save Money and Time in Hospitals

Duct tape has always been a boon in healthcare settings. Inventive thinking by the infection prevention team at Trinity Medical Center has added to the versatility of the well-known duct tape.

Patients who are treated for infectious diseases are housed in protected zones. HealthCare professionals entering these zones, irrespective of the nature of interaction- a simple communication or a complete examination, need to wear protective gowns, caps, and gloves. This is not only time consuming but hospitals also need to ensure the availability of protective gear in huge numbers.

The team felt that when duct tape was used to demarcate the safe zone in the isolated wards, by using 3-foot squares of red duct tape on the floor, doctors who just needed to have a quick communication with the patients could stand within the safe zone without protective gear. Protective garb is required to be worn only during close contact with the patient during a complete examination.

The duct tape actually helped save time and money for hospitals and healthcare professionals. Researchers said that this simple duct tape exercise helped save close to $110,000 and 2700 man hours in a year. It also helped boost the interaction between isolated patients and healthcare professionals.



Source-Medindia