Housekeeper

PURPOSE:

The Housekeeper is responsible for maintaining a clean, sanitary, and safe environment throughout the Critical Access Hospital. This role supports infection prevention, patient safety, and regulatory compliance by performing routine and specialized cleaning of patient care areas, public spaces, offices, and ancillary departments. In a CAH setting, the Housekeeper must be flexible, dependable, and able to perform a variety of environmental services duties as needed.

DIMENSIONS:

The Housekeeper works with all housekeeping staff and staff of other departments. This position reports to the Housekeeping Manager.

ENVIRONMENT:

Lincoln Health is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital.  The facility employs 150-200 employees.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Cleaning and Sanitation

Clean and disinfect patient rooms, hallways, restrooms, exam rooms, common areas, and administrative offices as per established protocols. Performs terminal cleaning of patient rooms following discharge or transfer. Cleans isolation rooms following appropriate precautions and procedures. Sanitize medical equipment, furniture, and high-touch surfaces, ensuring they meet health and safety regulations. Dusts, mops, vacuums and maintains floors using proper equipment and cleaning agents. Collects, removes, and disposes of trash, regulated medical waste, and linens according to hospital guidelines.

Infection Prevention and Safety

Follow all hospital infection control protocols to reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections, including hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Uses cleaning chemicals safely and in accordance with Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Reports safety hazards, spills, or maintenance issues promptly. Assists in maintaining a clean and safe environment to reduce healthcare-associated infections.

Equipment and Supplies

Operates and maintains cleaning equipment such as vacuums, floor machines, and carts. Stocks cleaning supplies and notifies supervisor when supplies are low. Ensures equipment is clean, stored properly, and in good working condition.

Patient Care and Communication

Interacts professionally and courteously with patients, visitors and staff. Maintains patient privacy and confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations. Responds to urgent cleaning needs and special requests in a timely manner.

Additional Responsibilities

Assists with special projects such as deep cleaning, floor care, or emergency preparedness activities. May assist with laundry services or other support duties as assigned. Participates in training, staff meetings,and required education.

EXPOSURE RISK:

Potential exposure to Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs), including but not limited to MRSA, C. difficile, and norovirus, through contact with contaminated surfaces, linens, or waste.

Risk of exposure to airborne pathogens like tuberculosis (TB), influenza, and COVID-19 in certain hospital areas.

Handling biohazardous waste (e.g., contaminated cleaning rags, linens, or medical waste) which may carry pathogens.

SUPERVISORY RESPONISIBILITIES:

No supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

EXPERIENCE: Prior cleaning experience, preferably in a health care setting is a plus. Knowledge of cleaning agents, chemicals and equipment.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Knowledge of English language.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team. Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks. Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high standards of cleanliness. Ability to lift and move objects as required, including bending, stooping, and standing for extended periods. Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position requires working in a hospital environment with exposure to cleaning chemicals, noise, and hospital activities. Regular interaction with patients and health care staff in various departments.

Salary : $15 - $17