Infection Prevention in the Hospital
At Eguchi Pediatrics, where we are dedicated to protecting children’s health, we take great care to prevent infections within the clinic. We have equipped our facility to ensure it boasts some of the highest standards of cleanliness in the prefecture.
Diatomaceous earth walls were installed throughout the hospital
Conventional vinyl wallpaper and similar materials tend to accumulate dirt and raise concerns about the release of chemicals. For this reason, we opted to use diatomaceous earth walls throughout our clinic during construction.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural material formed from the accumulation of glassy shells of fossilized phytoplankton known as diatoms. It is highly porous, containing numerous microscopic pores invisible to the naked eye. These pores absorb and release moisture from the air and adsorb odor-causing substances. We mix this diatomaceous earth with seaweed (such as funori) to create a sticky paste for application.
The key features of diatomaceous earth walls include high humidity-regulating properties (mold and bacteria prevention), excellent water absorption and quick-drying capabilities (trapping pollutants), and strong deodorizing and odor-eliminating effects (absorption of gaseous substances). These properties help keep the hospital environment constantly purified.
Regular ventilation and high-quality air conditioning systems
To prevent airborne transmission, we regularly perform full ventilation throughout the hospital to bring in fresh air. In addition, a total of 13 medical-grade air conditioning units (equipped with HEPA filters that block COVID-19 variants and UV light sterilizers) are in constant operation.
Bacteria and viruses that cannot be completely contained by diatomaceous earth walls alone are removed and neutralized by these medical-grade air conditioning systems. In particular, four large air conditioning units are in operation in the examination rooms to ensure comprehensive protection against infection.
A route designed to avoid close contact
To minimize close contact with other patients, we have established a single, designated route from the reception desk through the examination room to the treatment area and finally to the waiting area.
We have also marked seating and treatment areas with stickers to ensure clear separation, and we have taken measures to ensure that our infection-prevention air conditioning system operates at maximum efficiency.
Nighttime Disinfection Using Ozone Generators and Hospital Cleaning
At night, we use an ozone generator to purify every nook and cranny. In addition to daily cleaning by our staff, we also have professional cleaners perform a thorough deep cleaning on our days off.
Strict enforcement of hand sanitization and laundry procedures for doctors and staff
As healthcare professionals, we naturally disinfect our hands and other relevant areas before every treatment. We also interact with patients while wearing clean, functional medical scrubs.