There are many infection control guidelines for long-term care facilities, especially with the emphasis on bodily fluids. Toledo, Ohio-based Betco Corporation, a chemical manufacturer, offers the following tips for removing bodily fluids for long-term facilites.

To get started, janitors will need the following supplies:

    •Wet floor signs
    •Protective goggles
    •Gloves
    •Clean white towels
    •Clean water
    •Spotting Kit
    •Carpet extractor
    •Vacuum

The process:

1. The first step when removing bodily fluid stains in public areas is to place caution or wet floor signs near the stain. Use appropriate personnel protective gear such as goggles and gloves so that you do not get in contact with the fluids as well.

2. Blot the stain to remove excess liquid using a white absorbent towel. A white towel prevents dye transfer to the carpet.  Be sure to blot and not rub the spot to avoid further penetration into the carpet fibers.

3. A good spotting kit will have an assortment of chemicals, safety gear and a chart to determine which spotter to use. After you identify the stain, use the chart to know which product to use.

4. Apply the spotter in a circular motion to the outside perimeter of the stain. Always work toward the center of the stain to avoid spreading the stain. Allow appropriate dwell time then use a tapping brush and a clean white towel to absorb the soil.

5. Follow the spotter with an enzymatic treatment which will digest the stain and control the odor.

6. A carpet extractor is an excellent tool to use when done to rinse the area with clean water to remove any residue of the spotter. This step helps prevent any chemical or soil residue from attracting new soil which could reappear later as a new stain. If you do not have an extractor available, simply vacuum the area when dry to remove any residual residue.

"Timeliness, a good process and the right chemicals are all important factors to get the job done," the company says in its blog.