Jharkhand News: RIMS Director Expresses Displeasure Over Unclean Premises, Seeks Explanation from Agency

Ranchi, October 24, 2024: RIMS Director, Prof. (Dr.) Rajkumar, has expressed strong displeasure over the unsatisfactory cleanliness conditions observed during a recent inspection of the hospital premises. The director conducted a thorough inspection on Thursday, highlighting significant lapses in hygiene and maintenance and instructed the responsible agency to provide an explanation for the neglect.

Cleanliness Issue at RIMS: Director Demands Accountability

During his inspection, Dr. Rajkumar identified several areas within the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) campus that were not adequately maintained. This included unclean pathways, poorly maintained gardens and scattered waste. Particularly troubling was the condition of the administrative building’s garden, which was found littered with waste and debris, and showed a lack of care for the surrounding plants and greenery.

In response to these observations, Dr. Rajkumar directed the medical superintendent to seek an immediate explanation from the cleanliness agency, Annapurna Utility Services. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, especially within hospital premises, which play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of patients, staff and visitors.

RIMS Director Takes Action Against Maintenance Agency

Dr. Rajkumar’s inspection did not end with the administrative building. He also observed dirt and clogged drains near the multi-story parking facility and surrounding buildings. The director expressed his dissatisfaction over these conditions and ordered the sanitation department, along with the agency responsible for cleanliness, to clear the area immediately.

Bio-Medical Waste Mismanagement at RIMS: A Major Concern

One of the most alarming discoveries during the inspection was the improper disposal of bio-medical waste. Dr. Rajkumar learned that the waste was not being managed in accordance with bio-medical waste disposal standards, raising serious concerns about potential health hazards. Reports suggested that waste from wards was not disposed of correctly, prompting the director to demand immediate corrective action from the sanitation agency.

“Proper management of bio-medical waste is critical in a hospital setting to prevent the spread of infections and safeguard the health of everyone on the premises,” said Dr. Rajkumar. He instructed the concerned departments to strictly adhere to the guidelines for bio-medical waste management and ensure compliance at all times.

Inspection of RIMS OPD Complex and Construction Site

The director’s inspection included a visit to the OPD complex, where he reviewed the progress of the ongoing construction of a new central laboratory. He instructed the Estate Officer and the Executive Engineer of the Building Construction Department to expedite the work and ensure its timely completion.

During his tour, Dr. Rajkumar identified several areas within the OPD complex that required immediate attention. This included the unclean conditions beneath staircases, around toilets, and near the inmate wards. The director noted the presence of accumulated waste and instructed the agency to improve their sanitation efforts. He also issued a show-cause notice to Annapurna Utility Services for their unsatisfactory work.

Electrical Safety Measures and Furniture Maintenance

Apart from cleanliness, the RIMS director inspected the state of electrical safety within the premises. He ordered the electricity department to enforce safety protocols to prevent fire hazards, particularly in areas where issues had been observed.

Additionally, Dr. Rajkumar noticed broken and discarded furniture scattered across the hospital, including near the lifts in the medicine department. To address this, he instructed department heads to replace the damaged furniture through the medical superintendent and dispose of condemned items. He also ordered the removal of debris, including leftover materials and broken equipment, to ensure patient safety.

Director’s Commitment to Ensuring Clean and Safe Environment

Dr. Rajkumar’s actions during the inspection reflected his commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety within RIMS. Hospitals are spaces that require stringent hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of infections and provide a healthy environment for treatment and recovery. The director’s strong stance emphasizes the need for effective sanitation measures, proper waste management, and regular maintenance to achieve these standards.

The RIMS administration has acknowledged the director’s observations and promised swift action to address the issues. The cleanliness agency, Annapurna Utility Services, has been given strict instructions to enhance their maintenance efforts and comply with the hospital’s hygiene requirements. Further action may be taken if the agency fails to provide satisfactory results.

Importance of Cleanliness and Proper Waste Management in Hospitals

Cleanliness and hygiene are integral to the efficient functioning of a hospital. It not only ensures a conducive environment for patient care but also reduces the risk of hospital-acquired infections. Proper waste disposal, especially of bio-medical waste, is vital to protecting both patients and healthcare workers from exposure to harmful substances. The actions taken by Dr. Rajkumar highlight the importance of upholding these standards to safeguard public health.

Moving forward, RIMS is expected to reinforce its sanitation protocols and hold the maintenance agency accountable for any lapses. Dr. Rajkumar’s proactive approach serves as a reminder that maintaining cleanliness in hospitals is not just a service requirement but a critical component of healthcare delivery.