Learning Mobility to Malta, August 5-9, 2024

As part of the job shadowing, we observed the organization and principles of nursing home cleaning processes. One significant difference we noted was the choice of cleaning methods. We learned that wet cleaning is predominantly used in Malta, which involves using water with a wringer bucket on a cleaning trolley. The effectiveness of the wet cleaning method in the nursing home was ensured by drying all surfaces with a dry microfiber mop. In Estonia and Northern Europe, healthcare facilities have largely transitioned to using pre-moistened mop systems. The pre-moistened mop system manifests in practical cleaning as a damp cleaning method, where a water bucket is not carried around the facility; instead, a sufficient number of mops pre-moistened with the correct dosage are used.

The job shadowing at the nursing home confirmed to many learning mobility participants that cleaning and hygiene in Estonian healthcare facilities are generally well-managed and in good order. For example, many hospitals in Estonia use moistening bottles, not spray bottles. Particles of substances sprayed from spray bottles can be dangerous to the respiratory tract, and continuous wrist movement can strain joints. While moistening bottles are regularly washed in Estonia, spray bottles, as observed in the Maltese nursing home, are never washed. They are used and refilled with cleaning solution until the tool breaks and a new one must be introduced.

During the job shadowing, the spacious rest and washrooms for staff were noticeable. It also became clear that, compared to Estonia, the nursing home had a significantly higher number of caregivers and cleaning staff per resident. This likely means less work-related stress and that patients receive higher quality service. Indeed, all participants in the learning mobility noted that the nursing home residents were particularly cheerful and content.

In the training program, we focused on implementing the principles of the ISO 9001 management standard. The idea that management according to standards increases work efficiency, helps promote core activities, and serves as a management aid resonated. A prerequisite for implementing standard-based management is the collection of various data. If you don’t have data, you just have an opinion, and opinions can vary greatly.

Describing any procedures helps make the work of a company or institution more efficient and maintain the desired quality in various areas of activity. Thus, in management, when facing obstacles and setbacks, it is possible to focus on improving the procedure rather than blaming individuals.