Overview
CEN ISO/TS 20342-10:2022 provides practical guidance for the manual cleaning, disinfection and care of polyurethane covers used on assistive products for tissue integrity when lying down (APTI). The guidance focuses on protecting the internal components of APTIs, maintaining tissue integrity performance, and extending service life while advising users to follow manufacturer instructions as primary guidance.
Key points:
- Applies to manual cleaning and disinfection only
- Aims to reduce cover damage, prevent cross-contamination and preserve function
- Does not assess disinfection efficacy or prescribe automated processes
Key Topics
Cleaning
- Sequence: Cleaning must precede disinfection.
- Remove gross soil: Physically remove blood and visible soiling using non-abrasive methods.
- Detergent: Wipe with a pH neutral detergent (avoid cleaners with pH < 6 or > 8).
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse with warm water (typically 18 °C to 40 °C) using a clean cloth or sponge.
- Materials: Use non-abrasive, hospital-approved cleaners and cloths when manufacturer guidance is not supplied.
Disinfection
- Process: Wipe all exposed surfaces with an appropriate disinfectant, allow the recommended contact time, then wipe dry.
- Rinse after: Rinse surfaces thoroughly with warm water and dry the APTI before replacing linens.
- Cautions: Frequent or repeated disinfectant exposure, failure to rinse, or allowing residues to dry can accelerate degradation of polyurethane, increase fluid penetration risk, and potentially raise cross-infection hazards.
Care and Inspection
- Inspect before use: Check for pinholes, tears, cracks or other damage; replace covers that are compromised.
- Storage: When left on APTIs during storage, keep in an air-permeable protective cover, stored flat in normal indoor temperature and humidity; avoid placing objects on top or storing on edge.
- Handling and transport: Handle with two people when needed and transport on suitable beds/carts to avoid dragging or cover damage.
Applications
- Healthcare facilities, nursing homes and home-care settings using APTIs for pressure redistribution and tissue protection.
- Training for clinical and cleaning staff on safe manual cleaning/disinfection procedures for soft polyurethane surfaces.
- Product lifecycle management to reduce replacement costs and maintain warranty compliance by following manufacturer and ISO guidance.
Related Standards
- ISO 20342-1 - Assistive products for tissue integrity when lying down: General requirements
- ISO 20342 series - other parts addressing materials, effectiveness and durability
Note: Manufacturer instructions take precedence. This document does not evaluate the microbiological efficacy of procedures; it emphasizes practical steps to minimise cover damage and preserve tissue integrity performance.