Linda Lybert

It is not enough to learn every physical characteristic of a given surface and surface material. It is not enough to become an expert in the latest disinfection agents and protocols. This data must be combined with an understanding of the patient care process and insight into human behavior patterns. Only by bringing all these aspects together to form a comprehensive understanding of the issues can we begin to develop the sweeping changes required to see a significant reduction in the number of infection. For the past 17 years I have passionately crusaded for surfaces that are cleanable leaving little room for human error when cleaning. As a former member of the FGI Guidelines for Design and Construction of Healthcare Facilities Revision Committee, I was instrumental in the creation of the first definition of the ideal surface characteristics for healthcare facilities, published in 2006.