Sustainability interventions in nursing wards
ADL
Washable underpad
Disposable cellulose mats have a significant environmental impact due to the raw materials used in their production. For example, wood is needed to make the pulp that gives the mats their absorbent quality. In addition, cellulose mats are difficult to recycle.
Intervention
Replace disposable cellulose mats with washable underpads.
Environmental impact
Measured in CO₂ emissions, based on the reduction in the number of cellulose mats and the reuse of washable underpads.
Implementation approach
Look at the approach for implementing a (reusable) product and consult the step-by-step guide for more information on setting goals, implementation, and evaluation.
When is it implemented?
This intervention is considered implemented when nursing units in the hospital have switched to using washable underpads and the difference in CO₂-equivalent (kg) has been calculated.
How is this measured?
The environmental impact of this intervention can be determined using purchasing data on the number of cellulose mats, see the procedure for measuring an intervention using purchasing data.
Note: Other interventions may affect the outcomes of this intervention. If the ‘Reducing the use of cellulose mats’ intervention is implemented at the same time, this could influence the purchasing data of cellulose mats. Implement the ‘Reducing cellulose mat use’ intervention first, followed by this intervention, to accurately measure the effect.
Resources
Click here for an example from Noordwest Hospital Group where washable underpads were introduced. The hospital aims for zero disposable cellulose mats per year.
Click here for the best practice from the Green ICU on washable underpads.
Resultaten
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View our other interventions
ADL
Reducing linen use
Linen is used for many different purposes. Reducing linen use is not only better for the environment but also benefits patients by helping to prevent pressure ulcers. The do-not-do recommendations1 advises: “Avoid or limit unnecessary layers underneath the patient, such as linen, positioning materials, cellulose mats, incontinence materials, clothing, and bedding.”
General resources
Paper medication cup
Medication is often administered several times a day in plastic cups, which generates a large amount of waste. Paper medication cups suitable for liquids (containing less than 5% plastic) offer a more sustainable alternative. In some cases, however, a plastic cup remains necessary, for example when crushing medication.
