A PATIENT was given detergent wipes used to clean floors instead of a wash at Glasgow's £842million super-hospital.
Staff at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital handed out Clinitex multi-surface wipes, which are designed to, “remove dirt and grime for different areas and equipment,” and contain chemicals which are toxic to the skin.
A spokeswoman for the manufacturer said the wipes were, “definitely,” not for use on human skin.
Hospital bosses have apologised and said nursing staff would be briefed to ensure it does not happen again.
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A relative of the patient, who was being treated for a broken knee and foot, questioned their use, posting on Facebook: “Medicine people - are these normal to be given in a hospital to clean your face/body when you are bed bound.
“They don’t seem like they are designed for skin.”
A spokeswoman for NHSGGC said she was concerned by the claims, saying the wipes were not intended for patient hygiene.
A warning on the packet urges users to seek medical advice if they come into contact with the eyes.
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Scottish Conservative Glasgow MSP Annie Wells said: “Everyone knows the NHS is under strain and staff have to do their best under trying circumstances.
“But this is blatantly unacceptable, and an insult to patients who have paid their taxes to help fund the NHS.
“This practice needs to be stopped at once to ensure vulnerable people are cared for with decency and dignity.”
A spokeswoman for Clinitext told the Evening Times: “I can confirm these wipes are not suitable for patients to use on their skin.
“We have skin cleansing wipes which are suitable for patients.”
Anne Harkness, Director of the South Sector for NHSGGC, said: “This should never have happened and I apologise to this patient if she was provided with the wrong wipes.
“I will be reiterating to our staff the importance of checking what is being provided to patients so this does not happen again."
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