What is a Hospital Housekeeping Job?
A hospital housekeeping job is a position within a healthcare facility that involves the maintenance and cleaning of the hospital's physical environment. This role is vital to ensure that the hospital is safe, sanitary and comfortable for patients, visitors and staff. Hospital housekeepers are responsible for ensuring that all areas of the hospital are clean, disinfected, and free of clutter, as well as maintaining a high level of hygiene to reduce the spread of infection.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Hospital housekeeping jobs involve a variety of tasks and responsibilities. Some of the common tasks that are typically assigned to a hospital housekeeper include:
1. Cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms, restrooms, offices, and other areas of the hospital.
2. Collecting and disposing of waste and hazardous materials in accordance with hospital policies and regulations.
3. Maintaining an adequate supply of cleaning materials and equipment.
4. Responding to requests for cleaning services from patients, visitors, and staff.
5. Performing routine maintenance tasks, such as replacing light bulbs and changing air filters.
6. Keeping detailed records of cleaning activities and reporting any maintenance issues to the appropriate staff members.
Top 5 Skills for Position
If you are interested in pursuing a career in hospital housekeeping, there are several key skills that can help you succeed in this field. These include:
1. Attention to detail: Hospital housekeepers must be meticulous in their work to ensure that all areas of the hospital are clean and free of germs.
2. Time management: Hospital housekeepers must be able to balance multiple tasks and complete them within a set timeframe.
3. Communication: Hospital housekeepers must be able to communicate effectively with patients, visitors, and staff to understand their cleaning needs and respond to their requests.
4. Physical stamina: Hospital housekeepers must be able to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects, and perform physically demanding tasks.
5. Adaptability: Hospital housekeepers must be able to adapt to changing situations and work collaboratively with other members of the healthcare team.
How to Become this Type of Specialist
To become a hospital housekeeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many hospitals also require previous experience in housekeeping or a related field. Some hospitals may also provide on-the-job training to new hires.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in hospital housekeeping, you may also consider earning a professional certification. The International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA) offers the Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Professional (CHESP) certification, which can help you demonstrate your expertise in this field and improve your job prospects.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for janitors and building cleaners, which includes hospital housekeepers, was $28,110 as of May 2020. However, this can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, geographic location, and the specific employer.
Roles and Types
There are several different roles and types of hospital housekeeping jobs available, depending on the needs of the hospital and the size of the housekeeping department. Some of the most common roles include:
1. Housekeeping Aide: This entry-level position involves basic cleaning and maintenance tasks, such as sweeping floors, emptying trash, and wiping down surfaces.
2. Environmental Services Technician: This role involves more advanced cleaning and maintenance tasks, such as disinfecting patient rooms and operating equipment to clean floors and carpets.
3. Environmental Services Supervisor: This position involves supervising and training housekeeping staff, as well as overseeing the cleaning and maintenance of the hospital.
4. Facilities Manager: This role involves managing the overall maintenance and operations of the hospital's physical plant, including housekeeping, maintenance, and engineering.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Hospital housekeeping jobs can be found in healthcare facilities across the United States, but some states and regions may have more job opportunities than others. According to the BLS, the states with the highest employment levels for janitors and building cleaners (which includes hospital housekeepers) as of May 2020 were:
1. California
2. Texas
3. New York
4. Florida
5. Pennsylvania
What are the Typical Tools
Hospital housekeepers use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties. Some of the most common tools and equipment used in this field include:
1. Cleaning supplies, such as disinfectants, sprays, and wipes.
2. Vacuum cleaners, brooms, and mops.
3. Personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and gowns.
4. Trash bins, liners, and bags.
5. Carts and trolleys for transporting cleaning supplies and equipment.
In Conclusion
Hospital housekeeping jobs play a critical role in maintaining a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment for patients, visitors, and staff. These positions require attention to detail, physical stamina, and strong communication skills. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, you may consider earning professional certification or seeking out on-the-job training to improve your skills and increase your job prospects.