At what point must soiled linen and clothing be bagged?

Soiled linen and clothing must be bagged at the site of use to help prevent the spread of contaminants and ensure proper infection control within a healthcare facility. This practice reinforces safety protocols by minimizing the risk of exposure to potentially harmful pathogens or biohazardous materials present on the items.

Bagging dirty linen and clothing at the site of use also facilitates efficient handling during the collection and transportation process. Once in the appropriate bag, these items can be safely moved to the laundry area without directly handling them, which further reduces the chances of cross-contamination.

While it may seem convenient to bag soiled items in other locations, doing so at the point of use is critical for maintaining hygiene and protecting both healthcare workers and residents from potential infections. This practice aligns with established guidelines and contributes to the overall safety and cleanliness of the healthcare environment.