Microbial contamination of keyboards and electronic equipment of ICU (Intensive Care Units) in Kashan University of medical sciences and health service hospitals

Abstract

Microbial contamination of computer keyboards and inanimate surfaces of electronic equipment in ICU (Intensive Care Units) can have a significant role for ICU-acquired colonization and a spectrum of nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was to survey the incidence of bacterial contamination and the distribution of species of computer keyboards and inanimate surfaces of bed side equipment in ICUs in Kashan University of medical sciences and health service hospitals. This descriptive, cross-sectional study was done on 75 computer keyboards and inanimate surfaces electronic equipment in 5 ICUs during 2016–2017. Samples were collected from computer keyboards and electronic equipment with normal saline rinsed swabs. Samples were Cultivated on Blood Agar (BA), and MacConkey Agar (MAC) and growing bacteria were identified based on their morphology and biochemical properties. Seventy six (76%) out of 75 computer Keyboards and electronic equipment were contaminated with bacteria and fungi. The most contamination pertained to gram positive bacteria (70.7%) and the most isolated bacteria were coagulase-negative staphylococci. The highest contamination rates were found on computer keyboards and electronic equipment of which were nurses.•This study demonstrates that monitoring inanimate surfaces and considering these surfaces as source of nosocomial infections is necessary.•In total, Seventy six (76%) out of 75 computer keyboards and electronic equipment in ICUs had positive culture.•It can be concluded that it is necessary for ICUs of Kashan university of medical sciences and Health service hospitals to have practical and regular program to reduce nosocomial infections.