There’s been concern in our hospital about the use of cell phones at work. It’s always safest to keep them stored away and free from potential contamination. However, some SHARE members may be required by the nature of their job to communicate on a mobile phone. And we all need to be mindful of the potential for the things that we handle to convey the coronavirus and other pathogens.
Coronavirus may be able to live on your phone for several days. Whenever possible, keep it stored away at work and in public, and clean it regularly.
If you have questions about the appropriate use of your cell phone at work, you should consult your manager, and abide by infection control guidelines established by our hospital. That said . . .
Phone Protective Equipment?
Here’s a short video presented by a physician who uses a simple ziplocking bag as a kind of PPE device for her phone, especially since it's one of the only items that travels with her between work and home. She recommends using the speaker on the phone to avoid having to bring the phone near her face.
Cleaning Your Phone
CNET reports a list of dos and don’ts for effective phone-friendly disinfection.
Additionally, this lighthearted Public Service Announcement, which derives its advice from the British Broadcasting Corporation, describes an alternative cleaning method using mild soap and a soft cloth. This video notes:
In a 2012 University of Arizona study, cell phones were found to carry ten times the amount of bacteria found on the average toilet seat.
Any wipes used on your your phone should contain at least 70% isopropyl alcohol, and be non-abrasive.
Cleaning chemicals should not be applied to your device, since they can ruin protective layers on the screen.
Stay safe!