The Tribune

PRINCESS Margaret Hospital yesterday defended the integrity of its hygienic practices against social media rumours that surgical equipment is being hand washed.

While the hospital stressed its sterilisation procedures were in line with international standards, it also noted in a press statement yesterday, that there were “challenges” from time to time.

“Management at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) brands as false, information circulating on social media alleging that surgical equipment at the hospital is being hand washed, and states for the record that nothing could be further from the truth,” according to the statement.

“The hospital performs consistent sterilisation and other required protocols on medical devices, equipment and consumables, earmarked for the operating theatres and for aseptic procedures, in accordance with international standards.”

It continued: “While as with any functioning 24-hour, seven-day a week facility, there are challenges from time to time, the hospital continues to employ a maintenance schedule that allows for equipment upgrades with minimal disruption in services, and in accordance with the highest regard for safety standards.

“The Princess Margaret Hospital remains committed to providing quality health care to Bahamians and residents alike,” it said.