Housekeeping Standards
❓ What should you do before entering a resident’s room?
Knock, wait for a response, and announce yourself before entering.
When must gown and gloves be worn in laundry?
Always when handling or sorting soiled linen.
What should you do if your housekeeping cart is left unattended?
Lock it immediately; never leave chemicals or supplies unlocked.
What PPE is required when sorting soiled linen?
Gown and gloves must always be worn.
What should you do if a surveyor asks you a question you don’t know?
Politely say, “I’m not sure, but I’ll find out for you,” and ask your supervisor or nurse.
How often should mop water be changed?
After every three rooms or sooner if visibly dirty
Why can’t gloves be worn in the hallway?
It spreads contamination; remove gloves after tasks and wash hands before leaving the room.
Where should carts be placed in the hallway?
On one side of the hall to keep pathways clear.
How full can the sharps container be before it’s replaced?
No more than two-thirds full.
What does “See Nurse Before Entering” mean on a door?
There are special precautions — check with the nurse before entering and follow posted PPE guidelines.
What must you do with “Wet Floor” signs?
Always use them when mopping or if the floor is wet, and remove them when the area is dry.
What should you do after removing gloves?
Wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
How often should lint screens be cleaned?
After each use or as required by facility policy
❓ What must you do after loading soiled linen into a washer?
Disinfect and wipe the washer rim and controls.
Who should you ask if you are unsure about a cleaning or laundry procedure?
Your supervisor or the nurse in charge.
What do you check in the linen storage area each shift
Ensure it’s clean, organized, and stocked with sufficient supplies.
When should cleaning equipment be disinfected?
After every three rooms or any time it becomes contaminated.
What should you do after removing gloves?
Wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
What must you do when transporting clean linen?
Always cover it to protect it from contamination.
❓ What are surveyors looking for in laundry and housekeeping areas?
Cleanliness, safety, infection control, and staff knowledge of facility policies.
Why should staff not speak in a foreign language in resident care areas?
To maintain clear communication and professionalism for residents, visitors, and surveyors.
What should you do if a spill or contamination occurs in the hallway?
Isolate the area, use wet floor signs, clean and disinfect promptly, and report as needed.
What should you do if an exhaust vent is dirty?
Clean or report it immediately to maintenance or your supervisor.
Why must clean and soiled areas be separated?
💡 Answer: To prevent cross-contamination and maintain infection control compliance.
How can your role help the facility stay “Survey Ready Every Day”?
Ans By following policy, maintaining infection control, and taking pride in a clean, safe environment.