Physicians, who work with infectious disease, are well aware that relatively small tasks, such as assisting patients to the restroom, can be anything but simple.

In efforts to provide the safest patient care possible for people inflicted with infectious diseases, healthcare staff are required more involved measures, before entering rooms. Extra precautions can include suiting up with equipment such as gowns, gloves, mask, and goggles.

But because of a discovery by the infectious disease team at Trinity Regional Health, a 504-bed facility situated on the Illinois/Iowa border, staff can utilize time and efforts in patient care, more efficiently and effectively.

“The Red Box” has proven to be a cheap solution that saves time, money, and better utilizes schedules of physicians, as well as nursing staff.

The magic tool might surprise you: duct tape. Its serves to create a three-foot square, which represents safe zone. As reported in HealthLeaders Media, “when interaction between the patient and caregiver is quick, easy, and does not require close interaction, the Red Box can be used for about 30% of patient encounters.”

“So far, the trick has proved a savings of 2,700 hours of personnel time and $110,000 a year in avoided purchase of gowns and gloves, said Janet Nau Franck, infection prevention consultant at Trinity.

“Its usefulness has proved to be true for each of the two years since its inception, in January, 2009. That the savings was that significant, she said, was “surprising to many of us.”

Success thus far, includes lessened barriers, better time management, and a better awareness that the room is an isolation room. When busy hospital staffers see the red tape, it reminds them they entering an isolation room. Previously, the only indication was a sign outside the patient’s door.

“Not having to wear gowns or gloves increased quality and frequency of interaction creating an environment where both patients and staff were happier,” Franck said.