The Delhi government hospitals will implement a colour-coded bedsheet system to enhance hygiene standards under its “Kayakalp Initiative”.
The government has decided to use seven-colour linen bedsheets on rotation to improve infection control and patient well-being.
The colours would be White for Monday, Pink for Tuesday, Green for Wednesday, Purple for Thursday, Blue for Friday, Light Grey for Saturday, and Peach for Sunday.
“This system is designed not only to streamline linen management but also to provide a visual assurance of cleanliness to patients and their families. Each colour lot will be supplied with a robust stock for changing bedsheets,” an official statement from the government reads while announcing the scheme on Wednesday.
The procurement
of these new linen sets will ensure better quality and uniformity. The Delhi hospitals have also been instructed to efficiently collect, manage, and utilise these bed sheets to maintain high hygiene standards.
“This initiative, a first for Delhi government hospitals, is being rolled out under the Kayakalp initiative,” the statement added.
Kayakalp
Kayakalp is initiated by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, to promote cleanliness and hygiene, and prevent Hospital Acquired Infection (HAI) in public health facilities. An extension of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, it incentivises and rewards hospitals that exhibit the highest levels of sanitation and cleanliness through a continuous assessment and peer review process.
The Kayakalp implementation guidebook emphasised the critical importance of proper linen management in preventing healthcare-associated infections.
The guidebook mandates strict protocols for handling dirty and soiled linen, separate transportation, and washing in hot water with detergent. The new colour-coding system will simplify adherence to these protocols, making it easier for staff to manage linen cycles and maintain the highest standards of hygiene.
Goals
Speaking on the development, Delhi Health Minister, Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh, said this initiative, under the Kayakalp framework, will not only reduce HAI rates but also have a positive psychological impact, fostering a more healing environment and boosting the morale of our dedicated hospital staff.
“The well-being of our patients is our top priority. This innovative seven-colour bedsheet system is a simple yet important step to build an environment of trust and transparency,” he said.
