UofL Health EVS Standards | Hospital Cleaning & Infection Control
- In the wake of COVID-19, patient expectations for healthcare cleanliness have risen sharply.
- Thomas Deringer, PhD, Vice President, Experience, emphasized that cleanliness is crucial for patient safety and trust.
- The campaign's objectives were to transform patient perceptions of cleanliness, enhance the overall patient experience, and foster a shared obligation for hygiene.
UofL hospital’s “Power of Clean” campaign masterfully boosts patient safety and satisfaction by revolutionizing cleanliness protocols.The initiative, a direct response to heightened post-COVID-19 expectations, significantly elevates the patient experience. The hospital’s strategic partnership with Crothall Healthcare showcases an unwavering commitment to enhancing perceptions and boosting tangible hygiene practices. The “Power of Clean” campaign isn’t just about appearances; it’s about instilling assurance and fostering trust through dedicated staff engagement. Key improvements include an impressive 11% increase in room cleanliness scores and a decrease in critical infections. News Directory 3 highlights this proactive approach, which is now being emulated across various healthcare institutions. discover what’s next for UofL’s pioneering strategy for a healthier future.
UofL Hospital’s “Power of Clean” Campaign Enhances Patient Experience
Updated May 31, 2025
In the wake of COVID-19, patient expectations for healthcare cleanliness have risen sharply. UofL Hospital responded by launching the “Power of Clean” campaign in partnership with Crothall Healthcare, aiming to reshape perceptions and practices around hygiene. The hospital sought to not only meet but exceed patient expectations for a safe and clean environment, focusing on both tangible cleanliness and the perception of cleanliness.
Thomas Deringer, PhD, Vice President, Experience, emphasized that cleanliness is crucial for patient safety and trust. Research indicated that patients need assurance and confidence that their environment is clean. the Power of Clean campaign addressed these needs through innovative initiatives and clear messaging.
The campaign’s objectives were to transform patient perceptions of cleanliness, enhance the overall patient experience, and foster a shared obligation for hygiene. UofL Hospital set a goal to surpass the 50th percentile in cleanliness scores, and has reached the 54th percentile.
The Power of Clean campaign established a dedicated cleanliness committee, comprised of senior leaders, patient experience team members, and staff. This committee collaborated to align everyone on shared goals and implement key initiatives.
These initiatives included personal hygiene kits for patients, featuring items like body towelettes and sleep masks. Banners and posters reinforced the Power of Clean message in high-traffic areas. Gloves were made readily available, and staff were reminded to declutter, as clutter is often perceived as dirt. The “no-pass zone” principle ensured that everyone addressed essential actions like handwashing and responding to call lights.
Senior leaders modeled desired behaviors, recognizing staff efforts to maintain hygiene standards. The campaign fostered teamwork between environmental services, nursing staff, and leadership. Staff received Power of Clean T-shirts, visibly demonstrating their commitment.
Early results of the Power of Clean campaign include an 11% increase in overall room cleanliness scores. The hospital also saw a decrease in catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) and colon surgical site infections (SSI).
Cleanliness in healthcare isn’t just about appearance—it’s a critical factor in patient safety and trust.
The success of the Power of Clean campaign has led to its adoption at other institutions,including the University of Kentucky and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). The campaign demonstrates that true cleanliness goes beyond surface-level appearances.
What’s next
UofL Hospital’s Power of Clean campaign serves as a model for other healthcare organizations seeking to improve patient experience, safety, and overall outcomes through a thorough approach to cleanliness.