Organization announces changes to scrub uniform program

Michigan Medicine will soon implement changes to its scrub uniform program regarding the “Scrub Ex” dispensing machines in response to feedback received during annual employee surveys.

Here’s what you need to know:

In the coming months, “Scrub Ex” dispensing machines will be phased out and no longer used at Michigan Medicine. Instead, employees will be able to grab their scrub uniforms from accessible, open-rack shelves without the need for credits or tracking.

“As a part of Michigan Medicine’s journey of continuous improvement and high reliability, we asked ourselves: ‘Is there not a better option when it comes to obtaining or returning scrubs for our faculty and staff, frequently aggravated by technical problems with our scrub dispensing machines?’” said Bob Harris, P.E., associate hospital director of facilities, planning & operations. “And this new program will provide that by eliminating the potential breakdowns of systems and dispensers and the frustration that accompanies them.”

The new “grab-and-go” program has already been successfully piloted in the operating rooms at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital and Von Voigtlander Women’s Hospital.

“We have taken what we’ve learned from that pilot and will soon roll the program out to other areas where Scrub Ex machines are currently in use,” said Patricia Silverman, administrative director for perioperative services. “We’re confident in the long-term success of the project.”

To help with the transition, there are few things all faculty and staff should keep in mind:

• Take only what you need: Take only one bottom and one top at a time.

• Return used scrubs: All used items should be returned promptly in order for them to be properly handled by the laundry team for appropriate care.

• Keep laundry areas tidy: Maintaining neat areas will help the linen distribution team ensure accurate stock and for colleagues to find what they are looking for.

• Do not wear scrubs outside hospital: As health care professionals, it is our duty to ensure the safety of all employees, patients and families — and removing scrubs in the hospital goes a long way toward achieving that goal.

Please review the Infection Control Policy for awareness and more information. Talk to your supervisor if you have additional questions.