What is the correct way to handle bed linens before washing?

What is the correct way to handle bed linens before washing?

• A. They should be rolled up with the dirty side in.
• B. They should be shaken to be sure none of the residents' personal belongings are put in the wash.
• C. They should be left in a pile outside the resident's door for housekeeping to pick up.
• D. They should be rolled up with the clean side in.

Answer: (A)

Contaminated bed linens need to be handled in a way that limits the spread of germs. The best approach is to roll them so the dirty surface stays inside the roll. This containment protects you and others from contact with the soiled fabric and helps prevent pathogens from becoming airborne or transferring to other items. Shaking linens can release germs into the air, leaving a pile outside a resident’s door risks exposing staff and others, and rolling with the clean side in would bring clean material into contact with contamination. When transporting for washing, place the linens in a designated laundry bag or hamper and use gloves to maintain infection control.

Contaminated bed linens need to be handled in a way that limits the spread of germs. The best approach is to roll them so the dirty surface stays inside the roll. This containment protects you and others from contact with the soiled fabric and helps prevent pathogens from becoming airborne or transferring to other items. Shaking linens can release germs into the air, leaving a pile outside a resident’s door risks exposing staff and others, and rolling with the clean side in would bring clean material into contact with contamination. When transporting for washing, place the linens in a designated laundry bag or hamper and use gloves to maintain infection control.