Augusta University Health is using a robot to keep a germ-free environment

As the number of cases of COVID-19 quickly rises across Georgia, Augusta University Health is working to reduce the spread of infections by using a robot to target and kill bacteria and viruses, including the coronavirus disease 2019.

The Tru-D SmartUVC uses ultraviolet lights to disinfect and sterilize hospital rooms and other clinical areas to ensure a germ-free environment. This is accomplished by the robot measuring the proper dose of UVC energy that reaches the walls and other surfaces while being reflected back to the center of the room.

As of March 11, AU Health has had no cases of COVID-19.

“We are dedicated to providing our patients with the best care, and our housekeeping staff has incorporated using Tru-D as another way to protect our patients, visitors and even our staff during their time at our facilities,” said Dr. Phillip Coule, vice president and chief medical officer for Augusta University Health. “Although many cleaning products are effective against coronaviruses, using the Tru-D UV-C light allows us an added layer of sanitizing to keep our patients safe.”

Since infections never take a day off, Tru-D is in use around the clock each day to lower the risk of contaminated surfaces in the medical center, clinical areas and the Children’s Hospital of Georgia. The robot takes up to 45 minutes to complete a cleaning cycle, which frees up time for the medical center’s environmental services team to begin cleaning other areas before bringing in the robot.

“We are serious about making sure our patients are being cared for in a germ-free space, and I am grateful to know we are able to offer this infection prevention technology at our hospital,” said Anthony Carter, first shift operations manager in Augusta University Medical Center’s Department of Environmental Services.