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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Jamestown Regional Medical Center is raising money for a germ-zapping robot and it needs the public’s help.
Ultraviolet light from the Xenex LightStrike Robot reduces the risk of surgical site infections. This technology eliminates bacteria, viruses and protozoa and eradicates dangerous microorganisms such as drug-resistant superbugs including C. Diff, MRSA and VRE. As part of the fundraising campaign, JRMC is asking the public to participate in a Name The Robot contest.
“The Name The Robot contest is a great way to get the word out about this new, germ-zapping technology,” said JRMC Foundation Director Lisa Jackson. “Educators have loved it because it ties in with their hand-washing curriculum.”
The Xenex Robot’s portable disinfection system is an emerging technology in healthcare. It focuses on the most effective and efficient method of sanitizing surfaces throughout the medical center. This technology enables environmental services personnel to increase their effectiveness of providing the safest environment for patients, physicians and staff.
“We want to do everything within our means to provide the safest and cleanest environment. This is one more tool to help reduce the risk of hospital acquired infections,” said Jenna Bredahl, quality coordinator at JRMC.
Surgical site infections are rare, Bredahl said. Eight were reported at JRMC in 2017, far below the national average of 1,571.
Despite an environmental services team’s best efforts, some germs are nearly impossible to clean by hand. Each surgical site infection is dangerous and expensive. Each surgical site infection can cost $15,000 to $50,000.
“JRMC is a leader in medical technology. It’s only fitting that we should employ innovative technological solutions to care for our facility. One hospital acquired infection is one too many, so we are excited to use the Xenex system to ensure we deliver the finest quality of care,” said K.C. DeBoer, JRMC CEO.
The portable Xenex system can disinfect a typical patient or procedure room in four or five minutes. It can be used in any department or any unit at JRMC, including isolation rooms, operating rooms, general patient care rooms, contact precaution areas, emergency rooms, bathrooms and public spaces. Each robot costs about $100,000.
The JRMC Foundation is raising money for the Xenex Robot as part of Giving Hearts Day. On Feb. 8, 2018, online gifts are matched, making a significant difference in care. To enter the Name The Robot contest, visit www.jrmcnd.com/giving. Participation is free. Coloring sheets can be turned in to JRMC or Unison Bank. The deadline is Feb. 8.
To learn more, call (701) 942-4880.