Measures put in place by the Royal Flying Doctor Service during the COVID-19 pandemic are here to stay, the service said, after noting it created flow-on benefits for the business.
Last year, the RFDS implemented the use of a fogging agent to disinfect aircraft following the transfer of potentially infectious patients.
Now, MicroSafe Australia's product Nanocyn is being used to disinfect aircraft prior to the transfer of immunocompromised patients, as well as during regular cleaning activities.
The Flying Doctor often transports patients with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients.
RFDS Queensland state manager Aeromedical Nursing Jacinta Jones said it takes just 30 seconds for the product to work its magic.
"In just 30 seconds, the technology can kill viruses and bacteria, making it the perfect solution to clean and disinfect the aircraft which may transport up to seven different patients each day," Ms Jones said.
"We close up the aircraft, walk away for a few minutes so it can dry, get whatever else we need, and by the time we've walked back from the storeroom to the aircraft, it's ready to go.
"We absolutely love it. We can even smell the difference in the aircraft. It feels and smells cleaner, which creates a better environment for both staff and patients."
Ms Jones said the RFDS had improved its infection control through use of the disinfectant.
"It's really added an additional level of safety. And as the solution is 100% natural, non-toxic, non-corrosive and leaves zero residue that may harm the aircraft or medical equipment, all our equipment can remain inside the aircraft during the decontamination process," she said.
MicroSafe Australia managing director Matt Seifert said the RFDS faced unique infection control challenges regarding its aeromedical work.
"We are extremely excited to be able to continue to support the RFDS in all matters related to infection control," Mr Seifert said.
"The RFDS is taking no chances when it comes to safety and asset protection and having the organisation using Nanocyn successfully throughout Queensland, underlines the quality of our product."
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
