Mold: Proactive Approach to a Potential Problem

Abstract

ISSUE: In summer 2002, water and mold damage was identified in a patient room shower wall due to a plumbing leak. Exploration of other shower and sink back walls indicated mold damage to the entire area. Infection control surveillance identified no concerns prior to this finding. PROJECT: Facilities, Management, and Infection Control consulted with experts in Industrial Hygiene and Environmental Management to implement remediation strategies. Proposed was $2.9 million, 18-month containment, remediation, and renovation project of the involved areas. Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) was completed. Units scheduled for renovation were closed, shifting patient admissions. Infection Control educated staff on maintaining a safe patient environment. Renovation was completed under strict supervision to ensure no mold contamination occurred of the HVAC system or other patient care areas. This included sealing the unit, use of HEPA filtration units, protective clothing for the workers, environmental rounds to ensure complete containment, and heightened surveillance of patients and staff. RESULTS: No cases of healthcare-associated fungal infections linked to the project have been identified. LESSONS LEARNED: Prevention of healthcare-associated infections is the responsibility of the entire healthcare team. A progressive, responsive management team provided the key financial and administrative support to help ensure a safe environment. A proactive approach to potential sources of healthcare-associated infections can be facilitated with the cooperation of Management, Infection Control, and Facilities.