Disposal of linen

The correct disposal of linen plays an important part in infection control. Incorrect disposal of linen is a potential hazard, not only for clients but for all health care workers.

Equipment:
Linen skip, appropriately coloured linen bags (check local policy), apron, plastic bag (for soiled linen), red alginate bag (soluble for infected linen), red linen bag (for infected linen) and gloves (if in contact with soiled or infected linen) are required. The procedures and rationales are given below.

Procedure	Rationale
Apply apron and wash hands	To reduce the risk of cross-infection and prevent contact with uniform
Take linen skip and appropriate linen bag to bedside	Linen can immediately be disposed of thus reducing the risk of cross-infection
If linen is soiled or infected don gloves	Reduces risk of contamination
When removing the linen always fold linen away from apron and place immediately in either a plastic bag for soiled linen or in red alginate bag/ soluble for infected linen (check local policy)	Reduces risk of contamination
Do not overfill bag and always seal alginate bags before leaving the bedside and do not mix clean, soiled and infected linen	Prevents potential leakage and reduces risk of cross-infection
Place in appropriate linen bag and remove to sluice area, seal when ¾  full and arrange removal by the portering staff	Reduces risk of contamination and reduces potential for back injury
Remove apron and wash hands	Reduces risk of cross-infection