What is a Housekeeper Called in a Hospital?

In a hospital setting, what was once broadly known as a housekeeper or cleaning staff is now most accurately and professionally referred to as a Healthcare Environmental Services (EVS) professional or simply EVS. This specialized title reflects the critical and distinct nature of their role within the healthcare environment.

The Evolution of Hospital Cleaning Roles

The terminology for hospital cleaning and maintenance roles has evolved significantly over time, mirroring the increasing understanding of their vital importance in patient care and infection control.

Historically, the services provided by housekeepers in a hospital might have been called:

• Janitorial services
• Custodial services

As the specific needs of healthcare facilities became more apparent, these roles transitioned to:

• Hospital housekeeping services
• Healthcare housekeeping services

Today, the most precise and widely adopted term that encompasses their specialized responsibilities is Healthcare Environmental Services (EVS). This shift in nomenclature highlights a clear differentiation between general commercial cleaning and the highly specialized cleaning required in healthcare settings.

Why the Change to EVS?

The move to the "Environmental Services" designation is more than just a name change; it signifies a recognition of the complex and critical functions these professionals perform. Unlike commercial cleaning, hospital environmental services are directly linked to patient safety and public health. Their duties extend far beyond basic cleanliness, encompassing rigorous protocols to prevent the spread of infections and maintain sterile environments.

Key Responsibilities of EVS Professionals

EVS professionals are integral to the operational success and safety of any healthcare facility. Their responsibilities are diverse and crucial, including but not limited to:

1. Infection Prevention: Meticulously cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms, operating theaters, and common areas to eliminate pathogens and reduce Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs).
2. Maintaining Sterile Environments: Ensuring that critical areas, such as surgical suites and intensive care units, meet stringent cleanliness standards to prevent contamination.
3. Waste Management: Proper segregation, handling, and disposal of medical waste, hazardous materials, and general waste in compliance with strict regulations.
4. Patient and Staff Safety: Creating a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment for patients, visitors, and staff by promptly addressing spills, maintaining clean floors, and ensuring proper equipment placement.
5. Room Turnover: Efficiently cleaning and preparing patient rooms for new admissions, often under time constraints, to ensure continuous patient flow and care.
6. Adherence to Protocols: Following strict guidelines and using specialized cleaning agents and equipment designed for healthcare settings.

This table illustrates the transition in terminology:

In summary, while the role historically involved general cleaning, the modern hospital housekeeper is a highly trained Healthcare Environmental Services (EVS) professional, playing a pivotal role in infection control, patient safety, and the overall functionality of the healthcare system.