WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital is recognizing five Environmental Services team members for their outstanding commitment to patient safety and infection prevention after meeting — and exceeding — the hospital’s 2025 Xenex robot usage goals.
Through their dedicated efforts, the EVS team utilized the Xenex ultraviolet disinfection robot 5,121 times throughout 2025, surpassing established benchmarks for enhanced environmental cleaning. The Xenex robot is used as an added layer of protection to disinfect patient rooms and high-touch areas, supporting the hospital’s ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
The team members recognized for meeting and exceeding their individual Xenex usage goals include Rhoda Dezarn, Gemma Sines, Diane Alderman, Karen Woofter and Virginia Hinchman. Among the group, Dezarn was recognized as the department’s top performer for 2025, demonstrating exceptional consistency and leadership in the use of UV disinfection technology.
“Our Environmental Services team takes great pride in the work they do every day to keep our patients and staff safe,” said Darla Goff, Manager of Environmental Services at WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital. “Reaching more than 5,100 Xenex disinfection cycles in a single year is an incredible accomplishment and speaks to their dedication, teamwork, and attention to detail.”
Xenex UV disinfection technology uses high-intensity ultraviolet light to inactivate microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, that may remain after manual cleaning. At WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital, the technology is part of a comprehensive infection prevention strategy that complements traditional cleaning practices.
Hospital leaders emphasized that the success of the program is driven by the EVS team’s daily dedication and willingness to embrace innovative tools that enhance patient care and safety. WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital remains committed to investing in advanced technology and recognizing staff members whose efforts directly support quality outcomes and community trust.
