What should be done immediately when a patient has an accident on the floor?

When a patient has an accident on the floor, it is crucial to clean up urine and feces immediately. This action is important for several reasons. First, it helps maintain a safe and hygienic environment for both the animals in the facility and the veterinary staff. Animal waste can harbor pathogens that pose health risks, so prompt cleaning reduces exposure and potential contamination. Second, cleaning up immediately can prevent slips and falls, which could cause injuries to staff or clients. Additionally, addressing accidents swiftly can help minimize odors and maintain a more pleasant environment.

While notifying the veterinarian might be necessary in other contexts, it is not the immediate priority in this situation. Cleaning with disinfectants and regular sweeping and mopping are also proactive measures, but they do not address the urgency of removing waste right after an accident has occurred. Therefore, the immediate action of cleaning up the waste is essential for infection control and safety.