ANALISIS PENGELOLAAN LAUNDRY LINEN DAN STERILISASI PAKAIAN DALAM PENCEGAHAN INFEKSI DI RUMAH SAKIT ISLAM KARAWANG

Laundry linen management and clothing sterilization in hospitals are essential components in preventing healthcare-associated infections and protecting healthcare workers’ safety. Improper linen management may increase the risk of cross-contamination, microorganism transmission, and occupational health hazards for laundry and Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) personnel. Objective: This study aims to analyze laundry linen management and clothing sterilization at Rumah Sakit Islam Karawang as part of infection prevention and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) implementation. Method: This study employed a descriptive qualitative method with a field study approach. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and literature review, while data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing using descriptive qualitative analysis. Findings: The results showed that laundry linen management and clothing sterilization were carried out through sorting, washing, drying, ironing, sterilization, storage, and distribution of clean linen. The hospital had also provided physical facilities, laundry equipment, cleaning agents, personal protective equipment, and work SOPs. However, several problems were still identified, including inconsistent use of personal protective equipment, potential mixing of infectious and noninfectious linen, and risks of exposure to chemicals and heat among workers. Implication: This study indicates that the effectiveness of hospital linen management is influenced not only by facilities and equipment, but also by SOP compliance, work supervision, and the hospital safety culture. Originality: The originality of this study lies in integrating laundry linen management, CSSD processes, occupational safety, and infection prevention into a comprehensive study within a regional hospital setting in Indonesia.