The Danger of Hot Bunking in Hospitals
Hospital Acquired Diseases (HAD’s) are an international epidemic. They seem to flourish seemingly unchecked by the healthcare industry. One such method hospitals employ that encourages the spread of diseases is the standard practice of “hot bunking.” Hot bunking in hospitals translates to the kiss of death for patients and continues to be a primary source for the spread of germs. The mission of the IFord Institute is disease prevention engineering and implementing strategies to create healthy hospitals. We aim to end the practice of hot bunking and change the method of hospitals putting profits before patients.
What is Hot Bunking?
It is a term that originated during WWII and has been applied to at least three areas:
- Submarines
- Airplanes
- Hospitals
World War II Submarines
During the Second World War, hot bunking was used to describe life aboard submarines. Missions would last up to two months and travel over 10,000 miles around the globe. As you can imagine, subs were cramped and little space was reserved for sleeping and living. Therefore, bunks were used by more than one person, and the sailors slept in shifts. As one person woke, another climbed in as the bed bunk was still warm from the previous occupant. Thus the term, hot bunking. Additionally, cleaning and sanitizing in these close quarters was a logistical nightmare. So, germs easily spread.
Modern Airplanes
Hot bunking also occurs on airplanes. Consider that the turn over for air travel happens quickly between flights. Airlines must stay in constant operation to ensure a healthy bottom line. Therefore, they tend to disregard healthy passengers. The airline must cover their capital costs, costing upwards of hundreds of millions of dollars. And, because of the forced quick turn around on both national and international flights, we have experienced the immediate transfer of germs and diseases. The cramped spaces, small seats, and shared breathing air further contribute to the problem. Many travelers report becoming ill shortly after flying. Airplanes are rarely entirely disinfected. There simply isn’t the time, money, or manpower to address this.
Hot Bunking in Hospitals
Modern hospitals, regardless of the advancements in technology, are a reservoir for acquired genetically modified diseases. A patient room may not be thoroughly sanitized between patients, often only getting new sheets before a new occupant arrives. Any illness from a previous patient can be passed on to patients. And, it is then re-circulated through the hospital placing patients, staff, and visitors in danger. Further, these germs can be carried home, putting even more innocent people at risk. Not understanding cleanliness and sterilization processes lead to failure of the 7 P Adage: “Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.”
Therefore resulting in 2 million diseases and a quarter million deaths. Sadly, this translates into hospital administrators dictating the actual disease from which the patient will die.
The IFord Institute’s Mission
Let’s be honest; it is safe to say that within every nook and cranny of a hospital there are hidden mutant germs. By not killing and removing these germs hospitals are directly responsible for passing them to other patients, staff, and visitors. However, the mission of the IFord Institute is disease prevention engineering. Our goal is educating healthcare professions to end this dreadful epidemic of HAD’s. Contact us today to learn how we can work together to create a healthier world.
