Strategies for Low-Resource Settings

Addressing Supply Problems

In low-resource settings, an inadequate supply of antiseptics can interfere with your staff's ability to minimize infection in clients.

Every facility faces slightly different problems. Whenever possible, try to find the simplest, most low-tech solution. Assemble a team of administrators and staff to work on strategies that will ensure adequate supplies during service hours. Have them ask:

• What is the real source of the problem? Can you budget enough money to order adequate supplies? Are new supplies being ordered before existing stocks run out? Does your antiseptic supply run out because staff are using antiseptics inappropriately (for example, when they should be using disinfectants)? Is your facility using the most appropriate antiseptic solutions?
• Is there a simple, low-tech solution? Is a less expensive antiseptic available? Can you ensure a budget for antiseptics? How can you modify current ordering procedures to ensure a steady flow of supplies?

Back to Making It Work

©2004 EngenderHealth